PBS airs ‘The Mormons’ documentary
- posted: 08 May 2007
- scrollarts@byui.edu
Last week PBS aired the two-part series “The Mormons,” which traced the history and development of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The documentary was put together by American Experience and Frontline, “two of PBS’ most acclaimed series,” according to www.pbs.org. Filmmaker Helen Whitney said, “Through this film, I hope to take the viewer inside one of the most compelling and misunderstood religions of our time.”
The documentary mapped out the faith of the Mormons. It included information about Joseph Smith’s revelation, the Book of Mormon, the temple, the afterlife and baptism for the dead. It also talks about living a Mormon life, missionaries, and answers the common question, “Are Mormons Christian?”
The film intended to show a balanced presentation of the LDS faith and history, but many felt that the film was guided and biased.
“I thought it was a good journalistic point of view, but it showed more of the negative side. It seems like someone watching it who is not a member would get a negative view on the Church because of this documentary,” said Russel Urness, a sophomore from Calgary, Alberta.
Despite the seemingly negative connotation, others felt that the documentary had some good moments.
“There were many wonderfully positive moments. I just hope it will lead to some future investigation in the viewers,” said Todd Hammond, a professor in the BYU-Idaho Religious Education Department.
Many of those interviewed were not introduced as to their affiliation with the Church until the second half of the documentary, making it confusing for many viewers.
“I felt a lot more comfortable listening to the General Authorities than the random excommunicated people” said Matt Swenson, a junior from Lincoln, Calif.
The film spent over 20 minutes examining polygamy and the families that are currently practicing it, although the practice of polygamy was renounced in 1890.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, a member of the Quorum of the Twelve said in the documentary, “We will be unequivocal in declaring that [polygamy] is not now practiced and say it with equal energy, with equal vehemence. As of 1890 we believe it was revealed [not to practice plural marriage], and so therefore the change is not the doctrine or the practice, but the issue is revelation.”
Although these statements were made, the film still interviewed the “Mormon polygamists,” not making it clear that those who practice polygamy are excommunicated from the Church and have no affiliation to it.
According to the Church, which issued an official response to the documentary, “No doubt, some Church members will feel essentials were left out. At a time when significant media and public attention is being turned to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and when news media is so often accused of superficiality in its coverage of religion, this serious treatment of a serious subject is a welcome change.” 
