Movie spotlight
Banking on Heaven
A hard-hitting documentary on the largest polygamous cult in the U.S., the Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), located right on the Utah-Arizona border. This film shows how women and girls are denied education and other civil rights, and are treated as slaves who are married off to the polygamous men of the cult. It investigates the role of Warren Jeffs, Head "Prophet" of the FLDS, and offers a searing indictment of his treatment of fellow cult members. It also addresses the lack of outrage from the mainstream Mormon church as well as the government's collective failure to take care of the problems that are plaguing many polygamists caught in this web of greed and deceit. See how a small group of courageous filmmakers managed to make their way into a town which shuns outsiders--particularly ones with movie cameras--and get damning testimonials from some of the women of this cult.
Insights
Plot Summary
A struggling Christian family finds their faith tested when a predatory lender offers them a deal that seems too good to be true. As they grapple with the consequences of their decision, they must rely on their spiritual beliefs and the support of their community to overcome the challenges and find their way back to prosperity.
Critical Reception
Banking on Heaven received a generally lukewarm reception from critics and audiences. While some appreciated its faith-based message and earnest performances, others found the plot predictable and the execution somewhat uninspired.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its positive Christian messaging.
Criticized for a formulaic and predictable storyline.
Performances were noted as sincere, though sometimes overshadowed by the script's limitations.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available suggest a mixed reception, with some viewers connecting with the film's religious themes and others finding it lacking in cinematic depth.
Fun Fact
While not widely recognized, 'Banking on Heaven' is an independent film that sought to deliver a faith-based message to a specific audience, often playing at smaller film festivals and Christian gatherings.
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