For all you people who didn't like the movie, I loved this movie. This movie makes me want to go on a mission. That acting was great and the story was good. It was also pretty funny although it did get serious at the end. Overall it was a good LDS movie.

Uncomfortable, a complete waste of time.

I would've given it 3 1/2, but since it wasn't a choice, I'll just go with 4 stars. A good revealing look at the missionary field, as it was seen by Richard Dutcher on his mission. I think that we (Mormons) too often idealize the missionaries, who are real people with real problems and weaknesses. I'm eighteen and I know what kind of jokes my age group likes to pull, and the humorous scenes of this movie perfectly reflect that. And it's refreshing to see that Dutcher doesn't apologize for portraying people the way they are. The film managed to be spiritual as well, though not in the conventional manner that Utahns or mainstream Mormons are used to; besides, what's wrong with something a little different? Overall the movie was well-crafted, I enjoyed the story, and overall I enjoyed the whole movie. A very good LDS movie, for members and non-members alike.

If you always wanted to know what LDS missionaries do on their missions and/or you wanted to see a film that really discusses the nature of faith, look no further than "God's Army". Richard Dutcher, writer, director, and star of the film, does an excellent job of portraying the essentials of the LDS mission experience and explores issues both unique to the LDS faith as well as general to almost all Christian religions. And he does it without trying to convert the audience to the LDS faith. The only drawbacks to the film are the mission president who comes across as extremely stiff and a rough start. However, if you can survive the first 10 minutes of the film, you are in for a thought-provoking experience that few Hollywood films can give.

I TOTALLY disagree with you Mr. Jones! I think Richard Dutcher is a very talented Movie Maker and I applaud him for his ability to go against the grain and make such a wonderful movie! I also think there is nothing wrong with marrying a former Sister missionary..They were done with their missions were they not??? It takes a very strong person to continue to make movies as he has when he has so many people ridiculing him for making them in the first place. I hope he keeps it up!!!

This was the funniest movie I have ever seen in 32 years. I literally could not breathe (laughing so hard) during the scene when "Pops" is found dead by his companion and the scene where the crippled young man is healed by a priesthood blessing and walks into the kitchen where everyone is eating cold cereal. What made that scenes so hilarious is that the movie portrayed these as "normal" mission experiences. Further, the movie would have you believe that all the sisters on a mission look like Cindy Crawford and that it is okay for the elders to pursue and marry the sister missionaries. I could go on and on. Suffice it to say this was one great movie!!!

Recently, I requested that my teenage children borrow a copy of ?God?s Army? from a former Bishop of our ward, who had recently shown it at a youth activity. To say that I was shocked, would be an understatement. After viewing it as a family, I quizzed the members of my household. To my chagrin, they each saw nothing particularly wrong with the film. This is consistent with the myriad of good reviews the film has received. However, once I began to point out the films many flaws ? anti- mormon themes, their eyes began to be opened. Richard Dutcher has done a great disservice to the church. He has worked his vendetta against mission presidents, parents, and God into a smartly woven irreverent tale. This film has the potential of deceiving even the very elect. The film does have value. It is an excellent illustration of how wolfs can enter into the flock in sheep?s clothing, and devour in unexpected ways. Richard Dutcher is a wolf, a clever wolf. This is a film designed to raise doubt and lower testimony. It is a dangerous movie. I hope others will see it (only) for the what is really is. Don Jones

I really enjoyed the movie. It was so good to see 'us Mormons' portrayed as real people for the world to see.I dont think those who are not LDS or who are anti-mormon can really have anything to take issue with. I can not argue with the writers opinion of the Mission President and one would not wish for a false representation to be made but could a MP really be that ostear? My husband (who's a Bishop) was worried about somethings in there being taken the wrong way by those who do not understand the LDS culture but I think those things are perhaps what will prompt the 'seeking' non member into action. Yes I liked it very much. When my son gets to Utah this week he's going to see it. I'm sure he'll enjoy it. Are you going to release it here in England- at least on video? Please do!

Ilooked forward to seeing this movie and was very happy when it was brought back to San Diego. I went to the first showing of the run, and was disappointed to find myself nearly alone in the theatre. I was not disappointed in the movie however. The actors were believable and the story was touching. I laughed... I cried... I left the theatre wishing that I had someone to share with. I will go again and take my grandchildren.

Jacque Gray is a babe!

Wonderful!!! Everyone, LDS or not, should see it!

I think that this movie is a cheap rip off for the LDS church to make more money. Had they thought about other people in the world, such as other religions, maybe this movie would have been a greater success. When I heard the title I thought of God's actuall army, like angels, not missionaries. If the Mormon church feels that it needs more money and followers, why dont you just start baptizing at conception, instead of waiting until they are eight years old and bring in some small amount of money. Whether you agree with me or not, is totally up to you, but when your church attacks the world of fellow churches, then it involves me. Also, I would like to add, that you are bias to movies that pertain to only non-sexual things. Also, the "MO MO" church aught to begin to think of letting people make the decision to become a certain religion, not shove it down their thoat like they did in this movie. (it is also like that in real life.) Thank you for hearing my opinon, Jason

As a former missionary (England Southwest 1972-1974), I easily identified with much of the fare delivered by God's Army - both the good and the difficult. We didn't collect cockroaches but mice were certainly plentiful in the 200-400 year old digs we frequented. The movie was a very real shadow of memories past. My recollection of most missionaries I served with is that they came with many types of baggage - some of it very hard to overcome. Having served with Mark Hoffman (of fraud and murder fame), it can sadly be stated that the tale of a young elder concentrating his efforts in the wrong place can also be personally destructive. As for myself, a convert of but two years when called to serve, God's Army was a refreshing look at the fact that among Mormons, there are pioneers in every generation. Not all of them crossed the dusty plains in covered wagons. I was turned out of house and home at gunpoint. There always being a greater sacrifice, my mission president paired me with a young Elder (Dracocardos) who was forcefully turned out of his native Rhodes and Greece in the same fashion for making the same choice. We witnessed the same miricles and were touched in similar ways to a conversion of faith. God's Army is to life members - a treat; to converts, a deeper look at the sacrifice wrung from dirty streets to seek each soul. To me, a convert who served a mission, it is simply wonderful to see a filmmaker who understands something that is so difficult to explain in worldly ways. I watched God's Army with my son (age 14) and just of a handful of other Mormons in a crowded casino based theater (Las Vegas, Nevada). At the end of God's Army, I was surprised to witness a crowd of mostly gamblers and tourists, sinners of sorts, take considerable time to applaud and cry a great deal. That's not sappy or contrived. That's real! Louis E. Deaux England Southwest and Bristol Mission September of 1972 to September of 1974

My wife and I went to see this one after it had been out for a month. Unlike most movies where the crowd gets thinner after three weeks, this house was packed. Just like this review section there was polarization. At least three people left in the middle..Who cares why. I was shocked by the blessing, and the prayers. But I reflected that, perhaps, these things need not be hidden since there is nothing to be ashamed of. People really should know what is going on. The mission president seemed a bit calouse, the missionaries a little frat house. Maybe I missed something but I was touched several times by the message. This was one of the most moving theater experiences I have ever had.

I saw this movie with some family members while visiting in AZ. Being out east I really hadn't heard much about it, but being a returned sister missionary made me want to see it. At first I didn't think it was realistic because the Mission President came across like an army sargeant. I had two mission presidents and they were MUCH nicer! Another thing, the Elders apartment was too CLEAN for a real Elders apartment! Ha, ha! We had a saying in my mission, "The best kept secret in the Church is what a mission is really like." I thought this movie portrayed "mission life" fairly accurately. While watching the movie I remembered what it felt like being "green" and tracting for the first time. We had a few missionaries get on a bus and leave too. I enjoyed my mission and am glad I went, but I will be the first to tell my 3 sons, it wasn't all warm fuzzies and smiles. I think the movie did a good job at showing both sides, but maybe could have shown more of the good. Like how close you get to the other missionaries. If it had been in my mission and an Elder died we would have all been bawling our eyes out standing in that airplane hangor. The only thing I felt uncomfortable with in the movie were the priesthood blessings. Thanks!

I was looking forward to watching God's Army because first of all, I am LDS, and second of all, I love missionary work and admire and respect missionaries. However during the film, I was deeply disturbed by the things that were shown on the big screen. I felt the fact that blessings were given and prayers were said for all audiences to watch was very wrong. These things are not to be shared on the big screen with people who don't have an understanding of how important and special these are. Is it any wonder that the church does not also do movies that show these kinds of priesthood blessings. Also, the fact that a blessing was given which allowed a cripled man to walk after many years was a bit too much for a movie like this. It can give the impression that it happens that often. The story line was good and emotions were high at times. However I think you could have done without many things that are extremely questionable. I think this movie will have a great deal of negative effect outside of Utah. Just remember the whole world is not mormon and not everyone understands our mormon language.

I took a non-member friend to this movie. Actually I drove and he paid the way. My sister told me about it and I was afraid it wouldn't come to our area so was excited when it did. I had good feelings when we left the movie...as we were walking to the car we walked past a tavern and my friend said,"would you like to go in for a beer?" I said "no, but I wouldn't want to keep you from doing anything that you want to do." ( He doesn't drink either.) We laughed together. I didn't ask him if he enjoyed the movie. He said to me,"thanks for taking me to the movie." I laughed and said,"no,thank you for paying." I do want to see it again but with my children and grandchildren. It's going to cost me next time around, but I feel the money will be very well spent.

Perhaps a different perspective on the film "God's Army." My wife and I saw the film this afternoon in Seattle. We are both returned missionaries, temple-married, and no longer active in the church. On a purely personal level, it is impossible for any former- missionary not to identify with this film. This is our culture, and this picture "captures" many aspects of that unique experience. On this level, we both enjoyed the movie for allowing us to visit and relive moments. We may recommend this film to several friends purely for them to get a glimpse of what life was like as a mormon missionary. On a "film-critical" level, the movie was weak. The story- line was simple and predictable. The characters barely more than 2-dimensional. Mormons are raised in a media-savvy culture, yet are media-starved for images of "real" mormons, and this film gives a quick fix. I spent a bit of time on the "Zion Films" website. They draw references to "Fiddler On The Roof" stating that it remained true to the tenets of Judaism, while still presenting a powerful, and non-denominational story of human-nature. They have set a lofty goal for themselves. Indeed, Richard Dutcher, in his script, made another Jewish reference by refering to one of my favorite books "My Name Is Asher Lev" by Chaim Potok. I think it is clear where Dutcher wants to go. The question is, did he get there? Is he even heading in the right direction? My answer would be an easy one: no. For those of us who have paid attention to mormon media and entertainment for years, the "Fiddler On the Roof" analogy is well-known. But, here's the very distinct difference between mormonism and judaism: judaism does not actively proselyte for new members. Nor is it controlled by the "center" of an organized church. "Fiddler On The Roof" works because it's creators most likely were less concerned with converting the gentiles than they were with creating a moving story of drama about the human condition. "God's Army", though mild, is still a proselyting film. And though it is not a church-affiliated or sanctioned film, it certainly isn't far from such. And why? Because mormons wouldn't tolerate it if it weren't. Even the minor areas in which it "pokes" the envelope are very simplistic and safe. I read one review on nauvoo.com that claimed this movie was "brutally honest." Can they be serious? If Dutcher had wanted "brutal" honesty in his film, there are plenty of stories to explore. But, I would guess that what Dutcher wanted was a marketable film...one that he could sell not to the main-stream movie audience, but to main-stream mormons. Which is fine, and is probably ripe for further development. But, don't kid yourself that this movie is ready to be released to and embraced by non-mormons. When I watch "Fiddler On the Roof," my jewish friends aren't hanging on my every emotional response to the movie, hoping that I will "feel" the spirit and recognize the absolute truth of Judaism. I can envision legions of mormons inviting their non-member friends to this "independent" film with ulterior motives. In the end, I applaud Dutcher for his efforts, and wish him well. You "active" mormons have given him a very tall order, and not much latitude. Even as safe as this film was, I still see lots of complaining about this or that small element of the story. I too long for films that include mormonism in a real and honest light. But, from my perspective, this film does not get there. "Brutal" honesty can only occur without regard for its consequences...and this film is very safe. But then again, this is only our first "date" with a new film maker. Let's hope his next effort goes a bit deeper, and that his audience will allow him to do so.

God's Army is the best movie I've seen in a long, long time. I loved it! I'm a non-LDS church member who drove an hour each way to see it, and then did it again a second time. While I have a longtime interest in Mormon history and culture I was surprised that my wife (who does not particularly share this interest) also really liked the movie, as did another non-Mormon (Muslim) friend. God's Army is a spiritual journey made rich by the universal human struggles and strivings of the young people on that journey. Their questions, missteps, and mistakes make their yearning for, and grasping of the sacred powerful and real--and an inspiration for the rest of us imperfect spiritual seekers. Les Gripkey

I thought this was a really good movie and that everyone should go see it

I enjoyed the movie. It did not tarnish my testimony. If it portrayed the missionaries in more "human" moments so be it. It didn't bother me. They are young men and the immaturity comes out. In spite of that, they still can get the job done! I am grateful for the missionary program, without it I would still be in darkness. I joined and yes the missionaries did let their hair down at times with me, but the message is true and they were wonderful examples to me, both male and female missionaries. By their fruits ye shall know them. I was surprised to read in one of the reviews that a lot of the cast was non LDS. I would have preferred that they were mostly LDS simply because there is a lot of talent within the Church itself that should be tapped. Especially since so much of what Hollywood produces a faithful LDS person would not want to be involved in. I am curious to know who was and who wasn't. The costar Dutcher is LDS but the others now I am wondering about. I wouldn't mind seeing the movie again.

AWESOME, is the only word I can think of. What a great missionary tool. I have a son just returned from a mission and one in Brazil. I know a lot of this was right-on. I felt the Spirit about 4 times real strong during the movie. I went on opening night and the place was packed, also lots of people were waiting to enter as we came out. THANKS for bringing the Spirit to the neighborhood theaters.It's been a long time comming. Ca. Sister

The cheap shots were cheap. The humor was sophomoric and not representative of the majority of missionaries I have known. There are some things that should not be trivialized no matter what audience the filmaker is wishing to reach. There were some teachings that raised legitimate questions, but the film was too shallow to answer them in a meaningful way and it appeared to me that the missionaries did not have answers for investigators questions. They were nearly APOLOGETIC that they did not know the truthful reponses! The notion that this film was "spiritual" is wrong. It may have been "emotional" but I was left feeling quite uneasy about the treatment of sacred things on film. This film was mediocre as art and I would not recommend it to anyone.

The fellow from AZ needs to be a little less self righteous about the movie. It is too easy to condemn the work that others have done, and Richard Drutcher has done it his way. Look around in your own wards, and you will find people of all walks of life. Differences. This movie is no different. If the man from AZ had the talent to make a movie, I am sure it would be appropriate for a temple ready audience, but this movie is reaching a different audience, on purpose. That's the goal, and I love it. I am thrilled to see this kind of thing happening. Sure, I wish all missionaries could be like Ammon. But this movie is realistic. I had missionaries yelling at me on my mission, there was some contention from time to time, it was not all roses. It is the way it really is. I wonder of the man from AZ has served a mission to know the vast cross section of spirituality that exists in the mission field? Anyway, God's Army is a good step in the right direction for an LDS made film.

We loved this movie. My kids and I have seen it twice and they loved it too. I think it shows what it really is like for a missionary and the struggles he has to go through and for those of us who have never been on a mission, it lets us see what its like. I love movies that make you laugh and cry and this definitely does that. We will definitely buy this one if it comes available. I am especially grateful for a movie the whole family can see!! We need more of these kinds of movies!

In my opinion this movie is a good example of taking sacred ordinances and making a public display. The film played on the emotions of people at times which some may interpret as being spiritually uplifting. I felt this movie lacked a true perspective of missionary work and what most missionaries are like in their efforts. Of course, there were elements that where accurate as far as the temperment of 19 through 21 year olds, but most were seriously exagerated. The mission president was not like any mission president I have known. There was no sensitivity toward new missionaries and he was represented more of a hard-nose coach rather than a spiritual anchor. Comments from the Mission President were questionable at best, even when speaking over the casket of a dead missionary. The missionaries represented seemed to have more of a worldly demeanor, most having some kind of problem. The movie depicted a feeling that there was a general struggle with testimony, and certainly lacking in spirituality. Of course, there are those exceptions that may fall into the category portrayed, but the movie represented these as the typical and normal. Prayers were said, and rather than being sacred and humble in nature, they were with eyes open and done superficially in representation. I think I was left with the thought the movie was trying to arouse questions about the truthfulness of the gospel being preached or bring missionaries to a worldly level, rather than what is more typical with continuous increase of testimony and determination to teach the true. If a missionary want to go home without authorization and the companion is aware of it the mission president would certainly be involved. However, there was no involvement or effort shown by the mission president mission president. I think the most offensive thing, however, was the flaunting of sacred ordinances. I was extremely uncomfortable with what was done. If the intent of the movie was to bring God's Army of missionaries to be viewed in a more worldly manner, then I believe the production of this move reached it's goal. There are several other things that I thought was not handled appropriately. Displaying dirty linen certainly doesn't build any positives in my mind. I would not recommend this movied to anyone, not even for curiosities sake. I give it two thumbs down for desireability.

I thought it was amazing! I am encouraged to serve a mission after seeing this movie. I felt the spirit durring the movie, and if I could feel that there, I think i could reallt feel it in the field.

I had never heard anything about this movie and only came across it in a review in the Mesa Tribune that trashed the movie. I immediatley was curious to learn more about it as I read the description of what the film was about. I found the website on the film which only peaked my curiosity even more. After seeing it, I have nothing but praise for this excellent movie portraying the missionary life in such a way, that it will strike a chord with EVERY missionary who has ever served. I have been home for almost 10 years and I tell you, I was literally taken back into the field... it felt SO real. I cannot recommend this movie enough, I have thought about it for days on end, I have told literally everyone I know, LDS or not, that they must see this movie. I tell you it was strange to feel the spirit in a movie theatre of all places, I only hope that more films like this can be made.

I think God's Army was a great film. I'm not saying that God's Army is my favorite movie of all time, I'm just saying I liked it.

I thought this movie was an excellent example that movies can have a heavy message and still be funny and sad. I thought it also was extremely well made for not having a major movie behind it. I want to thank the people who made this movie!! I love ya guys! T.C.I.T!!

I really enjoyed the movie and the message it carried spiritually and temporally. It made me laugh, feel emotional, and comfortable. It didn't have to rely on violence or "X rated" scenes to hold my attention. The plot touched on real situations these dedicated men and women go through while on a mission. Each enter the mission from different walks of life, cultures, childhood upbringing, two or single parent homes, and financial standing ranging from high to poverty level. Many carry burdens but find the load getting lighter as they serve their God by helping others. Had I seen this movie prior to being converted, I probably wouldn't rate it so high. However, after being through the grinds of life, seeking answers, and learning what missionary service is all about, it changed my views. Good Job!!!

As a non-LDS Christian, I was really impressed with this film. This movie gave me my first glimpse into LDS missionary life and I'm truly grateful for it. The film showed me real people struggling with real problems with love, grace and surprisingly, a strong dose of humor! Honestly, I was expecting something kind of hokey with really bad acting. I was engrossed by the strong story line and the quality of the acting was 'Wow! Amazing!'. The music is wonderful too. This film is great for people who want to see a good movie, and are tired of senseless violence and nudity. If you care about God's activities among us, then you'll really love this movie. Thank you a million times for lifting up the curtain just a little bit with such a fantastic film. I hope the LDS population stops worrying about negative backlash (impossible, there's nothing negative about your faith in the movie at all) and starts supporting this film.

This movie sucked.

I agree with most everybody here. I loved God's Army. I am a convert to the Church, and though I have not served a mission, I felt like I was part of the movie, because I was reminded of the elders who shared the gospel with me. They were fun, and commited, and when they bore their testimonies to me, I knew it was true. I'm glad they weren't out judging people, or they might have overlooked me. I guess other people can hate this movie if they want, I didn't like "Rocky", and people still give me a hard time about that. But I don't think that this movie makes missionaries look mediocre, I think it makes them look outstanding. My husband served a mission, and I watched him smile, or get choked up at many parts. He whispered to me that prostitutes in his mission used to look for the missionaries to bless their children. I wonder if any of them every joined the church? Surely they were blessed if the missionaries treated them as a servant of the Lord should. I wonder how hard it would be for a missionary in L.A to totally avoid all the worldly and wild sights there? I hope those missionaries are grown up enough to deal with it. Technically, we think that anybody could love this movie. We bought the sound track and have just about worn it out. We hope this movie has success outside of Utah. I was worried about people who think this movie is evil, but then I realized that there are probably arenas where people who are better than everybody else can get together and pat each other on the back. But as for me, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND God's Army, whether or not you've been a missionary, or are going to be one.

I saw the movie "God's Army" with a bunch of friends a few weeks ago, and all that I can say is that it was one of the worst movies ever made! Is it right to show missionaries being disrespectful to each other as well as the Lord, breaking mission rules, and in general striving only for mediocrity? Was it right to show a missionary placing salt into a fellow Elder's cereal while the prayer was being said? Is it for the missionaries to take pictures of each other while they are on the toilet? The answer to both of these questions is NO WAY!! These acts show a complete lack of respect for the Lord and his work. Some may argue that stuff like that really happens on missions, so it is necessary to show that in the film. That argument is completely unfounded! I spent two weeks in missionary apartments in Taiwan with the missionaries and each one of them, including the "Greenies," had more respect for the work being done than "Pops" did after serving for almost two years. I am extrememly dissappointed that Mr. Dutcher chose to place missionaries in such a mediocre light. The movie seems to praise those missionaries that don't really care to represent Christ as best as they can and only serve because they were pressured into it by family and friends. Pops, although he is one of the better missionaries in the film, is a far cry from what a missionary truly should be. Resorting to violence to try and convince an elder to stay in the mission field was wrong. So was taking a route home that had prostitutes on it. He should have found another area to walk! Instead of showing us mediocre missionaries, Mr. Dutcher should have shown the way most missionaries act and the way that every missionary should behave. THIS MOVIE CONTAINS NO VALUE TO PROSPECTIVE MISSIONARIES, AS IT SHOWS THEM THE WAY NOT TO ACT AND SAYING THAT MEDIOCRITY IS OKAY! Sam Nielson spn5@hotmail.com

There is no way an appropriate review of this movie can be offered, with any degree of intelligence, without first seeing the movie. I saw this movie, and I was touched, very deeply. I felt that spirit of serving the Lord that I felt when I was a missionary. How can we be so proud of the young people who choose to dedicate their time to the service of the Lord, and yet be so afraid of who they are at the same time? Mr. Dutcher has done a wonderful thing with this movie, and I offer him my sincere gratitude. I hope this opens the doors for more work of this kind. My only suggestion to reviewers is that they see the movie before attacking it. Unless they've had some kind of prophetic vision.

I loved it both times I saw it. The people I went with loved it as well I have not heard of anyone, excpet for that other guy (holier then thou himself). Pal, you will fill the spirit and you will enjoy yourself. Give it a try and if you want pray about it when your done

Hello. I've been home from my mission for four months now. I have not seen "God's Army" nor will I. I don't feel it is an appropriate movie. Why? I'll explain myself this way. From what I've read, in "God's Army" the "messengers get in the way of the message". Yes, missionaries are human. But that's not the point, is it? Missionaries weak though they are are called to represent God. They are called to represent His church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The church Christ Himself established on earth and presides over. The only church with His authority to baptize, to confirm, to bless, and to seal families togethor forever. Of course people will identify with the characters in the movie. Can any of us recall a movie in which we didn't identify with at least one character? In no way am I trying to be disrespectful, yet I identified with "Rocky" and "Bambi" though I'm neither boxer nor deer. My point is a man as talented as Mr. Dutcher could have used his abilities to focus on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, it's doctrines and teachings. Instead, it seems Mr. Dutcher was intent on proving that missionaries are human, medocrity is okay, and emotionalism is an appropriate substitute for spirituality. --Elijah K. Nielson

God's Army was such a great spiritual booster for me. I'm wondering what non-members of the church have thought about this production. Did they like it? Did it help them better understand what the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is all about? Or What? I suppose my favorite parts were when Elder Allen was trying to find out for himself whether the church was true or not, and when the elders kept playing practical jokes on eachother. Hilarious!!!!! And "Samuel the Lamanite". That part was funny too. Well, anyway, I definitely recommend seeing this movie. It doesn't matter who you are. You might like it!

GOD'S ARMY WAS INSPIRTIONAL AND MOVING, A MUST SEE. I WILL BE INVITING MY WIFE'S NONMEMBER FAMLY TO WATCH THE MOVIE WITH US. THEY ARE ALWAYS ASKING QUESTIONS ABOUT MY MISSION, AND CALLED TO SERVE DID NOT SUFFICE. I BELIEVE THIS MOVIE IS QUITE ACCURATE IN IT'S DEPICTION OF A MISSIONARIES LIFE. THE MOVIE WAS VERY DRAMATIZED, BUT A MISSIONARIES LIFE IS DRAMATIC SO I BELIEVE IT WAS APPROPRIATE.

My wife and I saw the movie on Thursday. Last night she went with three of our children. Everyone loved the movie. Mr. Dutcher took considerable risks with the topic and at first I was very uncomfortable viewing sacred material on the big screen. However, as I got obsorbed in the story and the message of the movie, it became a powerful experience for me. Perhaps there is nothing more important in finding your own testimony and using it for the benefit of others. I encourage both Mormons and non- Mormons to see it.

This is a great movie. It has emotion, suspence, and humor. It is a great family movie. This is definately the best movie I've seen at the theaters since "Star Wars: Episode I" was released.

My husband and I, along with a small group of friends, saw God's Army a few weeks ago, and we absolutely loved it. Everyone in our group was a returned missionary, and we all agreed that this movie depicted missionary life extremely well. In fact, my husband and his best friend, who are both from Brazil and served their missions there, were amazed at how similar missionary life in L.A. was to that of their mission experiences in their own country--the same jokes, the same stereotypes and the same spiritual experiences. I know this film will cater primarilly to the LDS audience, but I sure hope there are non-members out there who will feel inclined to see it, especially those that wonder who those guys in white shirts and ties are.

This is the best movie I've seen since Anna and the King. I encourage everyone to go and see it.

I found this movie very touching and a must see in my oppinion. I just hope it will open in Las Vegas so the rest of my friends and family will have the chance to see it. Make sure you bring kleenex. And my applause to Mr Dutcher for his work on this film.

I really, really enjoyed this movie. I laughed, I cried, and I said 'Amen' a couple of times. I have taken my family to this wonderful movie twice and intend on purchasing the video when it is realesed. I loved the acting. Elder Allen did a great job as the 'Greeny'. The cast made the movie really seem very real. Like I said above, I joined the 'Amen' at the end of the prayers and I heard an echo through the theater which told me others joined in too. I highly recommend this movie to all LDS and non-LDS that want to know what the Mormons do for two years around the world! Thank you for such a great movie! Let's see the Book of Mormon on the wide screen!

Having grown up in the Mormon faith, and having seen nearly every film produced by the Church, this movie took me by suprise as it really looked and felt like a real HollyWood production. I too, like others who've commented, served a mission, and while it was seemingly imposible that all of those personalities could exist in one missionary pad, it was so true that those personalities do exist in every mission to some extent, usually more spread out. The experiences were quite true, missionaries are real people from the real world and struggle to do the best they can. It did take a little while to feel comfotable through some of the more sacred moments. But how else could you portray these events as anything less than real? Could non-members enjoy this movie? I hope that they can! In final, I like better having this movie portray missionary life than say a Gods Maker type movie. Truth is so much better than a bitter fiction.

This is a surprisingly professional movie, worthy of high accolades for its boldness, accuracy, and entertainment value. Although the movie features many more tragic and pivotal events than typically happen to one missionary, integrity is not lost to marketability. A movie made with less dramatic events and more of a documentary style (which is what I was expecting) would have just been boring compared to what I saw. The movie's great secret: it is astonishingly funny! I didn't feel that I had to courtesy laugh at all. The tender blend of humor and sentimentality gives this film character that I haven't seen since "Life is Beautiful". Kudos to creator Richard Dutcher. I give it 3 1/2 stars. Thank you. Mark LaRocco of Providence, Utah

I went last night with my family and I took my seven year old son. We all loved it. My brother is serving a mission in Albania and we loved watching a movie about LDS missionaries. I hope that we see more from Richard, he did a wonderful job. My son loved the bathroom pictures, he couldn't stop laughing. It was GREAT!!! I hope non-members will give it a chance.

I thought the movie was so GOOD! I encourage everybody to go see it. It was such a good movie I saw it five times! You should too!

I wish I could take every nonmember I know to see this movie. As a believing and missionary-minded member, I wasn't too concerned about what this movie would say about Mormons or our faith. Our faith will stand on its own merits, however movies portray it. I was more concerned about what the 'God's Army' would say about its writer, director, producer and co-star, Richard Dutcher. What the film said to me about Richard Dutcher leaves me rejoicing. It convinced me that: 1) Dutcher is humble. This film doesn't try to say anything about its creator. He doesn't even flirt with the tactic, so common among artists, of making yourself look big by lessening something much bigger than you. He certainly had the opportunity, making a film about something as big as his own faith. 2) Dutcher is honest. His portrayal of missionaries and missionary life rang so true that I came away not just understanding, but feeling understood. This film doesn't hide and it doesn't sell, it just tells the truth. 3) Dutcher is faithful. This is the quality that makes me want to sing about this movie. Dutcher can afford to be honest, because he honestly believes that his subject matter can stand on its own, without his adding lipgloss or covering blemishes. He believes he can show missionaries just as they are, weak and powerful, doubting and firm, irreverent and solemn, happy and sad, imperfect and heroic, and the Church will be okay. It works, because the Church IS true, and Dutcher knows it. In fact, he counts on it. I want nonmembers to see this movie because humility, honesty and faith invite the Spirit, and as Dutcher said through Elder Dalton, it is the Spirit that converts.

God's Army is wonderful!!! If you have served an LDS mission, have a child that has served a mission, someday plan on serving a mission or wonder what these mormon missionaries do - it is an absolute must see. This movie hit me directly in the heart more than any movie I've seen in regular theaters. It stands alone as the ONLY realistic portrait of real live missionaries. GO SEE IT! GO SEE IT! GO SEE IT!

I think this movie was great. It was funny, spiritual and uplifting. The director did a great job in directing and acting in it. I hope this film opens around the country.

Terrific movie! As a Mormon, I have had many of the doubts and concerns that were depicted in this film. I saw and felt very real emotions in myself and others as I sat in that theatre. This movie has haunted me for days... I recently sent my two sons on missions and enjoyed seeing some of the day-to-day "stuff" that goes on during the missionary experience...and I believe that this story sensitively shows how many earnest young men and women struggle, pray for, and find true faith in Jesus Christ and the Gospel. I was also impressed with the tasteful depictions of things we hold very personal and sacred---a difficult task for Mr. Dutcher--but he did it well. It feels good to finally see a movie that is honest about who and what we are...a people who are not perfect by any means, but who have respect for others, a deep faith in Christ, and a desire to share that faith and the joy that it brings. Highly recommended.

The movie was well done and authentic. It portrayed some of the mental struggles missionaries have very realistically. Yes, the last third might have been sentimental and cliched, but sometimes truth is stranger than fiction and having had a brother that died in the mission field of Hodgkins disease, similar to "Pops" these things do happen.

I was very sceptical going in to see this film, especially at the beginning when the Mission President seemed so heartless toward the young Elder Allen. I'll admit, however, that as the movie progressed and the experiences portrayed were almost identical to my own in the missionfield, I had a change of heart. I really felt the emotional rollercoaster that Elder Allen was on. I went through the exact same thing. I feel this movie showed a missionaries life very well and would recommend it to any of my friends or acqua

I loved this movie! I've read other comments, and I agree with most of them. I think this movie helps Mormon people get a hold of what really happens out in the mission feild. My mission was a beautiful, spiritual time, and God's Army was so real for me, that I felt like I was back out there again. I don't think that you have to be a Mormon to really enjoy this show, I recommend it for everyone. As for LDS people who are uncomfortable with it, well, some of them make think they had a more pious experience, but I don't believe them. And if they haven't served in the mission feild, then this movie lets them peek in on what mission life is really like. If their vision was different, it's time to take some inventory on our beliefs and get a firmer grip on what's really true. We all owe a huge debt of gratitude to Richard Dutcher for telling a wonderful story in a touching and beautiful way. Richard's story is a huge success story.

Great Movie. Close to 4 stars for me. Acting is surprisingly wonderful. I had a companion that was 25, and a convert. He was intense, wouldn't lighten up, and we struggled a bit. We worked it out, leaning much from each other. This movie triggered many nuerological anchors relating to the mission experience, particualarly of psycolocical challenges, and of the great love you gain for the people, companions, and for the work.

I thought that the movie was well done for the mormon audience. I am just wondering if that was the intended audience or was the intention to spark the interest of any nonmemebers. I wouldn't recommend any support for this film. I feel that it destracts from the sacred calling of being called to serve for our Heavenly Father. I feel that it could be easy for any nonmember to get the wrong opinion about our beliefs and what missionaries really do or SHOULD do on missions.

I think people put too much thought in analyzing this movie. It was really good, and I would like all of my non- mormon friends to see it. I liked it because it's realistic and I felt the Spirit. When Elder Allan struggled with his testimony I felt exactly what he was feeling because I went through the same thing. I could relate. Great Job.

Excellent. Well acted. Cute sense of humor. The plot contains more stuff than would probably happen on one single mission, but it is stuff that happens all the time to missionaries generally, and the feeling of the movie is accurate and authentic. It's too bad that non-LDS viewers will probably think it is hokey, but any person with an honest curiosity about missionary life could benefit from this film.

Saw this movie on Friday. What caught me by surprise was that I had been toying the last couple of years with the idea of writting a screenplay about missionaries and had written down tons of notes and scenes that came into my mind and was finally getting to the point of organizing them into a coherent story with plot lines when to what to my wondering eyes should appear? But a movie already produced about the very subject matter that I had been thinking about. Oh well C?est la vie, at least in my life it?s been that way, every good idea I have had I have hesitated while weighing the very shaky but possible desired outcomes with the more probable outcomes for risking it all, in the which time someone else beats me to the punch. This movie re-ignited in me my interest in movie making and the possibillity, albeit remote, that I could actually realize my writing and directing ambitions as an active Latter-day Saint. I went into this movie expecting low-budget, cheesy acting and either an anti-mormon twist or an "Elder Smith?s Perfect Adventures in Happy Valley". Well I was wrong. It was very well balanced between the two. It?s spiritual moments weren?t church video outakes, and it?s humor wasn?t vulgar or detractional to the image that the church strives for. I liked that the Missionaries portrayed in the film were presented as 19-22 year old Human Beings and not Gospel Superman made of steel, but at the same time showing us the hardships, rigors, and sacrifices of Missionary life. Yes, there were scenes where I felt that emotions were trying to be evoked from the audience, but just didn?t quite get the reaction it seemed to be searching for. Probably because of the absence or a soundtrack accompanyment at those times. (I am a big fan of the right mood music at the right time for the desired effect), but nothing was too complicated during the story. If anything it had parts that may have been too simple, but that was what was intended. A simple but sufficently ample overview of an LDS mission. I would however place an age of at least teens or higher not because of content, but because most of the dialogue, jokes and plots do require some thought but not much. 10 and up just because I think most children younger than that would be bored. But for anyone with any interest in current Mormonism and Mormon culture it is a must see.

This film is a bit of a miracle. It is a high quality, genuinely sympathetic movie about LDS Missionary work. In that alone it is quite astounding. The fact that it treats matter-of-factly such things as missionaries having doubts, joking around, arguing, praying together and giving Priesthood blessings is even more amazing. I am sure that many things in it will ring true to nearly every returned missionary, but some things do not--unless things have changed a great deal since my own mission. For instance, I never saw such a loosely supervised group of Elders and Sisters. It looked as though they were almost completely out of touch with their mission leaders, even in the drastic cases of missionaries deserting the missionfield, having siezures, and even dying! They never took their investigators near a meetinghouse or baptismal font. I also found it a bit surprising to see missionaries portrayed as traveling alone, calling each other by their first names, and not shaking hands when they meet. In my experience, this almost never happens. I also felt there was too much pensive soul-searching and not enough enthusiastic and happy activity. Few missionaries that I have met are that lethargic or uninvolved. Those criticisms aside, I found the film moving, touching, and even inspiring. I recommend it to anyone, though I doubt that it will find a large audience among non-LDS moviegoers.

I had anticipated the movie since I saw a reveiw on the news about it over a month ago. I also was eager to see it because while serving a mission I thought it would be neat to have a movie that REALLY showed missionary life. I was pleased with what I saw. The pranks are true and universal, and so are the spiritual experiences. This movie doen't apologize for anything. It just tells the story. Probably the only flaw was the light depiction of the missionary's death. There seemed to be a lack of emotion from the characters until after what I assume was the funeral service. And we don't even see the mission president's involvement until the morgue scence. I have a feeling a mission president would have been a bit more involved. But it really doesn't take too much away from the film. I was deeply touch with this film's honesty, and I hope to see more like it.

I am a returned missionary. Though I served in Australia, much of the films substance is extremely accurate. I found this film to be entertaining, fun, and spiritual, with an underlying theme which states, indirectly, that we all must find out for ourselves what the truths of the gospel are, pray concerning them, and be willing to accept and to act on what we receive in answer to those queries. Sorry, i'm notorious for run on sentences. Yes some short cuts in production methodology may have occurred, however, this film does uplift the spirit. It tells our story, the struggles that our missionaries go through. The triumphs, the failures, and the personal growth obtained from missionary service. Honestly, I feel everyone ought to at least see this film as much may be gained from doing so.

This was a very good movie! I was actually nervous about seeing it because I wasn't sure what it would be about. I came out feeling good about it. This is the first movie of it's kind, and is an example for other films to follow. It was clean and had a solid message. It proves that sex, nudity, violence, and profanity are NOT the elements of a good movie.

I recommend this movie highly and did so this morning in elders quorum meeting. One person made the comment they heard of two seminary teachers that walk out in the middle. My comment was they walked out in the middle they missed a very very good movie. By the way, my parents whom served two mission loved it also. A must see for all members. I would, however, be interested in what a non-mormon thought of it.

I was hesitant about how sacred aspects of missionary work would be presented. Having seen the movie I felt they were treated respectfully and with tact. It was a little surreal to see blessings and sacred moments portrayed in a movie . . .but they were characteristic of the movie's general accuracy and honesty.

What a strange experience.....a movie that blended the healing power of the priesthood, with a real life view of the everyday life of a missionary.....for the whole world to see. Wow, I came out of there thinking when is the next one going to be released? This movie blended the most personal intimate details of everyday missionary life, even items that most would consider private, yet it was shown in a way that grabs you, it keeps you rivoted to the screen for the full two hours. This movie was excellent. Remember Saturday's Warrior? Well God's Army is done professionally, it is a movie that has great sound, and video quality. Excellent. Rivoting. Spiritual. Funny. Thank you. Keith Wilson Springville

If you've ever tried to explain to somebody who hasn't served a mission, what a mission is really like - send them to this film and say no more.

I got to see this movie on Wednesday, and it was wonderful. This movie succeeds in capturing the experience of anyone who ever served a mission. But it goes farther and strikes a chord with all people who see it. Fantastic movie.

Excellent movie!!!!! Very inspirational....I'm an inactive LDS & this movie really touched me. Great job!

I have to give this movie credit where credit is due. This movie was amazing, so true to the mission experience. Even though this wasn't my mission, it was the same. The experiences the trials the thoughts, they were all the same, just different place. I don't think I've been touched so deeply by any movie before. This was real life for me and it brought all the emotions and good feelings of every spiritual experience that I ever had on my mission. This is a movie that is a must to see, especially for anyone that has served a mission, whether successfull or not. Job well done!!

My wife and I went to see God's Army with some trepidation. I was more then a little concerned by the potential for a filmmaker to make an insensitive and dishonest portrayal of what is at its core a sacred experience. On the other hand I want to be supportive of this type of filmmaking(geared toward an LDS audience) since I believe it is long overdue, and I would hate to see a glossed over-never had any problems account of missionary life. The director did a great job of balancing the highs of missionary work with the lows, and the added element of silliness that will attend any gathering of young men. I identified strongly with each character onscreen and could give you the names of the people I met and interacted with on my mission that Dutcher apparently studied to create these personas. In fact I now suspect Dutcher of having followed me my whole mission to garner his material:) Or perhaps he just used elements that are common to most if not all missionaries. The acting was far better then I would have expected for a low budget film. After the movie, several of the main actors from the film were signing autographs and I asked them how it was that the cast(which was largely not LDS) was able to capture every nuance, every emotion so perfectly without having a mission experience themselves. It was Michael Buster(Elder Kinegar) who responded "spirituality is universal". I guess in some ways we aren't so unique. This film though is, take your family to see it, it's worth every penny.

This movie was excellent, deserves to be viewed broadly. It should appeal to non-LDS audiences, but certainly strikes a chord with LDS viewers. The representation of mission life is spot on, as evidenced by the cockroach collection.

As a movie critic for BYU's newspaper, "The Daily Universe," I was able to attend a screening of this film in mid-January. Sitting in the theater with two other critics, I was consistently and deeply impressed by the honesty and power of this film. Admittedly, there are weaknesses. The film could benefit from a new ending. The "Where-are-they-now" vignettes are sappy -- especially the cocoa-sipping scene with Elder Allen and Sister Fronk. For those worried that this movie is going to, once again, ridicule their faith, take my advice: calm down. The theology is handled tactfully and sympathetically. Difficult questions are raised, but they are common questions that every member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints eventually grapples with. And the theology of the Church is NEVER shown in a negative light. There is a sense of reality in this film that returned missionaries will find uncanny. Missionary pranks, juvenile and un-Christlike as they are, are shown. Weak faith, deteriorating faith and faith-challenging questions are presented unapologetically. Those who find this portrayal disturbing most likely do not understand the "little-boy" syndrome that plagues most every 19-year-old male "representative of Jesus Christ" when they have a few minutes of spare time. Yes, real-life missionaries do dumb things. Speaking from my own experience as a missionary in Stockholm, Sweden, I recognized everything the missionaries in the movie did. They aren't perfect. They're human. They flirt with girls. They read anti-Mormon literature. And then they administer blessings. They aren't all Captain Moronis. But they're good people. What's important, and this is what is portrayed in the film, is that they are all trying to become better. It is in this that the movie finds its strength. There are those, especially here at BYU, who may find this picture less-than-ideal. So be it. That's the way it is. Arguments such as, "This film is like 'casting pearls before swine,'" and "This denegrates the holy nature of a mission," are examples of the mindset that Richard Dutcher is hoping to reduce. If members of the LDS church are unwilling to show themselves as imperfect, struggling humans, the stereotype that they are a fanatic group of secretive liars will be long in dissipating. In short: Force paranoia into submission and go see this movie.