List of films of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

This list of films of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints includes the non-commercial motion pictures commissioned by or officially produced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Feature-length films are typically premiered and exclusively shown at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building's Legacy Theatre in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, before being released to Temple Visitors' Centers, and eventually home use. In the 1970s, the church also commissioned Brigham Young University to produce short films for use in the Church Educational System. These films, shown mostly in the seminaries and institutes of religion, teach religious principles, church history, and general kindness. Released on VHS (and increasingly on DVD), they have become popular home entertainment. A wide variety of these films are now available through Brigham Young University's Creative Works Office.

These films differ from those of LDS cinema, which are produced without official church involvement.

Feature films

This list is incomplete; you can help by expanding it.
Title Year of release Duration Plot / notability Reference
The Decision 1957 15 min. The true story of the decision faced by a young LDS serviceman forced to choose between social acceptance and obedience to the Word of Wisdom.
As the Twig is Bent 1958 26 min. A father's use of tobacco contributes to his inactivity in the Church and has an adverse effect on his two young boys. Emphasizes the importance of temple marriage and of a good example. An anti-smoking video about a father trying to quit smoking.
Hearts of the Children 1959 27 min. Features President Joseph Fielding Smith and his emphasis on the importance of genealogy and temple work. Historical vignettes dramatize events from the lives of the Prophet Joseph Smith's ancestors in order to create interest in our own ancestors.
Unto the least of These 1959 32 min. Belle Spafford, who was general Relief Society president at the time the film was produced, introduces the story of a visiting teacher who is not convinced of the worth of the visiting teaching program. Through subsequent experiences, the visiting teacher learns how her labors can bring joy to herself and to others. Starring Lethe Tatge.
How Near To The Angels 1959 43 min. Depicts the positive influence an adviser can have when a young LDS woman must make some difficult decisions about whom she will marry. Places emphasis on temple marriage. Starring Leth Tatge.
Til Death Do Us Part 1960 21 min. A young LDS woman is torn between her desire to marry a nonmember and her loyalty to her parents and to the Church.
Up In Smoke 1960 22 min. This facetious look at a tobacco company's attempts to make cigarette smoking enticing both entertains and makes its point. An anti-smoking video about the dangers of cigarette smoking.
A Time For Sowing 1960 22 min. The Gray family are Church members with human weaknesses and strengths. The effects of parental behavior and example on the children are clearly dramatized.
Shannon 1961 33 min. Depicts the persistent and loving efforts of a Young Women leader to bring a teenage girl back into church activity.
My Brother's Keeper 1961 33 min. An ineffective Sunday School teacher causes a young boy to become negative toward the Church. The patient efforts of a bishop eventually bring him back.
A Chosen People 1961 25 min. Based on a true story of an Indian chief's dream wherein he was told to search for a people who possessed a book containing a history of his ancestors. Recaps the coming forth of the Book of Mormon and emphasizes the ties between the American Indians and the Book of Mormon.
The Worth Of Souls 1961 27 min. Sunday golf seems to lose its importance as Joe hears his young son tearfully express a desire for his parents to be sealed in the temple. Joe's revived interest in his family and in genealogy helps him to become active in the Church.
The Search for Truth 1962 41 min. Documentary about the harmony of science and religion, featuring interviews with Wernher von Braun, Harvey Fletcher, and Henry Eyring. [1]
Summer of Decision 1962 27 min. A sheltered young LDS man goes away to college and runs into opposition to his faith and beliefs. As he struggles, counsel from an Institute teacher and a nightmare dream about a car crash with his girlfriend, reaffirm his faith and his testimony.
Follow Me 1962 25 min. Shows how principles Christ exemplified and taught can help resolve interpersonal feuding problems among adults and children.
They Came Singing 1962 25 min. Produced for Church Information Services and narrated by Richard L. Evans. Scenes from the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's 1955 European tour highlight this presentation, which traces the musical heritage of the Church and emphasizes the importance of music in the Church.
Measure Of A Man 1962 23 min. A young man must decide whether to follow the crowd and drink beer or to do what he knows is right. Dramatizes problems youth may confront in dealing with peer pressure.
Worth Waiting For 1962 27 min. Julie and Joe are determined to marry, in spite of counsel from friends and parents. It is not until Julie sees the unhappy circumstances of a married friend that she and Joe decide that a happy marriage is worth waiting for.
The Windows of Heaven 1963 50 min. The story of Lorenzo Snow's revelation on tithing, while the church faces debt and drought.
A Family's Concern 1963 29 min. A rancher's search for lost sheep and later for a lost boy is likened to the effort sometimes needed to locate lost genealogical information about ancestors. President David O. Mckay concludes the film by encouraging members in their genealogical responsibilities.
Bitter Wind 1963 30 min. This story of an American Indian boy whose family is destroyed by alcoholism presents a powerful message for all ages and races.
By Their Fruits 1963 26 min. Sponsored by the Sunday School. This modern parable depicts three Sunday School teachers of varying degrees of effectiveness and how the diligence or slothfulness of each is reflected in the lives of their students.
The Morning Breaks 1964 17 min. A brief introduction to the history of the Church up to the production date of the film. Lowell Thomas narrates the prologue, and Richard L. Evans tells the story of the Church. Music by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
Man's Search for Happiness 1964 13 min. Brief overview of the plan of salvation; produced for the 1964 New York World's Fair [2]
The Long Road Back 1965 25 min. This dramatization depicts the long and difficult road a young man faces in repenting of unchastity and immoral behavior with his girlfriend.
How Do I Love Thee? 1965 30 min. Two young women who are roommates have differing philosophies. One disregards morals in an effort to win the affections of a boyfriend. The other fights to maintain standards. A different comes from each decision.
Love Is For The Byrds 1965 26 min. Dramatizes how important effective communications in marriage can be and how difficulties may result when both partners cannot agree on their roles in marriage.
Last Day At Carthage 1967 6 min. Depicts the martyrdom of Joseph and Hyrum Smith at Carthage Jail; a narration with photography of the jail and the surrounding landscape in black and white.
When Thou Art Converted 1967 29 min. A hardworking elders quorum president finds that loving all the members of his quorum is not easy when one of those members is a strong business competitor. Emphasizes the importance of finding answers to life's problems in the scriptures. Starring Gordon Jump.
Worthy To Stand 1968 29 min. A young lawyer devotes little time to his home teaching and finds his efforts of little value to his families. Discouraged, he asks for a release, because he considers his time to be precious. A letter from a missionary whose parents are separating helps him to see how he has failed. The missionary's prayer for his parents is answered as the home teacher helps them toward reconciliation.
Feed My Sheep 1968 30 min. A Sunday School seeks ways to better influence her students. Her vital interest in the everyday lives of her students brings her good results and great satisfaction.
Walk In Their Shoes 1968 24 min. Stan and his younger sister, Cheryl, resent their parents' interference in what they consider to be their own affairs. When the parents must leave town for a short time to be with grandma in the hospital, Stan is placed in charge. When conflicts arise, Stan acts like a parent, a role he has never before tried to understand.
Marriage- What Kind For You? 1968 25 min. An engaged couple view four other couples at a New Year's office party. They are able to see different kinds of marriage relationships. Useful for both married and unmarried couples as a basis for discussion on building positive marital relationships. Starring Gordon Jump.
Tom Trails 1968 3 hours 34 min. A photographed TV series about Tom Trails and the trials he goes through in High School including speaking in front of class, repenting of his sin with a woman, being falsely accused of attempted murder.
Are You The One? 1968 24 min. Although Doug and Marilyn have strong feelings for each other, they discover major differences in attitude that warn them of major conflicts should they decide to marry.
Never A Bride 1969 22 min. A self-seeking girl thinks she has found the right man while on vacation at the horse ranch, but she is disappointed to discover that she really has little to offer when he becomes engaged to a more mature girl. She learns that it is more important to be the right person than to find the right person.
Mirror, Mirror 1969 24 min. An insecure teenager redirects his life to concentrate on those things he can do well, rather than on those things he cannot do. This presentation is good for bolstering self-image. Filmed at Lagoon theme park and at Provo High School in Provo, Utah.
Johnny Lingo 1969 24 min. In Polynesia, Johnny has come to the island to bargain eight cows for Mahana to be his wife. Filmed at Laie, O'ahu, Hawaii.
For Time Or Eternity 1969 28 min. Dramatizes the conflict a young LDS woman faces in trying to decide if she will marry in the temple or outside of the temple. Filmed in California and Las Vegas, Nevada.
Pioneers in Petticoats 1969 44 min. Young women form the Young Women's Retrenchment Society as resistance against worldly trends. Starring Gordon Jump.
That Which Was Lost 1969 29 min. As Rick becomes associated with wayward hippie friends who smoke and take drugs, the concern of an adviser and an unpleasant experience help him to realize the importance of some of the things he thought he could give up. Shows how love and persistence can bring back the "lost sheep."
A Day For Justin 1970 28 min. The story of a boy who discovers for himself that self-sacrifice in the service of others brings blessings. Starring Johnny Whittaker.
What About Thad? 1970 20 min. The story of a shy eight-year-old boy growing up without much love or acceptance from his family, teachers, or friends. One day Thad gets bullied by his peers at church, and he throws a rock at the church window breaking it. His two primary teachers try to figure out what went wrong with Thad. Illustrates some of the problems in making the Church program work on his behalf. Featuring Gordon Jump.
Ice Cream and Elevators 1971 27 min. A BYU documentary on the lives of students living in the BYU apartment and going to school at BYU in the 1970s.
Run Dick, Run Jane 1971 24 min. A BYU documentary about running and exercise. Features George Romney.
Cipher in the Snow 1973 24 min. The true story of a boy no one thinks is important. After his sudden death one winter morning, acquaintances begin to reflect on the needs of every individual child.
Elaine Dart, Not Like Other People 1975 14 min. This documentary shows Elaine Dart's success in dealing with cerebral palsy. Through perseverance and patience, she has learned to coordinate her feet to accomplish even such intricate tasks as threading a needle, stringing beads, and knitting.
John Baker's Last Race 1976 35 min. The true story of a champion athlete who is given only six months to live. His last race, with time itself, becomes his greatest as he dedicates his life to the children he teaches, making every child feel important.
The Phone Call 1977 24 min. Scott is trying earn enough money for karate gear by working first as a paperboy, then at a Drive-in-Burger called Ripples; he is also trying to gain confidence to call Pam on a date. Starring Marc McClure. Filmed at Ripples in Provo, Utah.
The Mailbox 1977 24 min. An elderly widow anxiously awaits mail from her family, but letters do not come. The neighbors make life bearable, but they cannot replace her family. Helps to motivate children and adults alike to maintain communication with their elderly parents and grandparents. Starring Lethe Tatge.
Making A Better World 1978 28 min. A young man begins to stray from church activity. His bishop involves him in the bishop's youth committee, where he finds fulfillment in service activities.
Uncle Ben 1978 27 min. The true story of an alcoholic who seeks custody of nephews and a niece orphaned by an accident. As he faces the challenge to overcome his alcohol problem and be a good father, he realizes a greater reward than he had imagined.
Dream Big 1978 10 min. Documents a true story about Glen Cunningham, who after a serious accident in his youth was told he would never walk again. Through determination and courage, Glen became a famous, record-breaking runner. Emphasizes how important it is to set goals high and work toward them.
The Guilty 1978 21 min. This dramatization, produced for LDS audiences, is based on a story (by Elder Marion D. Hanks) that teaches love and concern for others. This takes place inside an LDS chapel during sacrament testimony meeting. Starring Gordon Jump.
The Trophy Case 1979 26 min. Randy, a teenager, tries to gain his father's approval by excelling in sports. Randy wants more independence, but his father feels the need to be firm in his guidance as long as he is providing for his son. The ending song, "If I Could Dream," was written and performed by Merrill Jenson.
The Emmett Smith Story 1979 23 min. Emmett Smith is a runner and coach at Cortez High School in Phoenix Arizona. When he develops a brain tumor, he gets surgery and is told he may never run again. After that he is determined to regain his balance and focus as he's struggling to run with the students. Meanwhile, another student, Cindy Duncan, is crippled and confined to a wheelchair, but is determined to be able to walk on crutches and then walk without them.
Blind Love 1979 25 min. A blind man is going to have eye surgery but his wife is worried, thinking she'll look ugly to him. Takes place in the 1940s era. Music is composed by Merrill Jenson.
Lilies Grow Wild 1979 15 min. A timeless feature set in the 1950s. Depicts the unusual way in which a rural school teacher's class learns about self-esteem and the importance of every person including a troubled boy named Jeddy.
Begin with the End in Mind 1979 29 min. As a result of an argument between a father and his son, the father is motivated to increase his effectiveness as a teacher in the Church. By getting help and by using meetinghouse library materials, he improves both his teaching and his communication with his son.
Christmas Snows, Christmas Winds 1979 28 min. One man reminisces of warm Christmas memories from his childhood. But he cannot forget one Christmas experience that still brings him regret as he remembers his unkindness to a German girl at the Christmas concert.
The Drop Card 1980 15 min. The story of a first-year college student who needs help and of a teacher who takes time to be her friend. Points out that feelings of inadequacy are extremely common in human experience, and can be overcome.
In One Blinding Moment 1980 16 min. Depicts a father's struggle with bitterness toward the teenage driver of a car that killed his young son. One day the father sees a sign made by his son that says "Love One Another." His whole attitude changes, and he seeks to help the boy who killed his son. Music is composed by Merrill Jenson.
Greater Love 1980 14 min. A young boy needs a blood transfusion to survive after a car accident. Because he has a rare blood type, only his sister can give the blood immediately. When the boy is out of danger after the transfusion, his sister reveals the depth of her love for him.
Joseph Smith: The Man 1980 9 min. The years between our day and the time of the Prophet Joseph Smith are effectively spanned as Lethe Tatge recounts to a group of children what her great-grandfather told her of his first hand experiences with the prophet.
Mr. Krueger's Christmas 1980 26 min. A widowed janitor (played by James Stewart) yearns for company on Christmas and daydreams about the spirit of the holiday.
A Marvelous Work Begins 1982 17 min. Some of the major events in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon are dramatized, including the loss of the 116 pages of original manuscript.
The Last Leaf 1984 24 min. O. Henry's story about a dying young girl, and her artist neighbor (played by Art Carney) who yearns to paint his masterpiece. [3]
The Award 1984 45 min. Some high school football players plan on giving an award to the ugliest girl in school. But one teenage boy learns about her beauty inside and how she helps kids with disabilities; he later decides to give the best award for making a difference to the kids in need.
Church In Action 1981-85 1985 40 min. Documents highlights of Church history from the years 1981 to 1985.
Before Columbus 1986 14 min. A documentary approach to how some of the ancient American ruins and artifacts relate to the Book of Mormon.
Teacher Do You Love Me? 1986 17 min. A true story about a rebellious boy named Mark who disrupted Primary class. His caring teacher takes time to help him to be a better boy.
The Power of the Word 1986 30 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series, volume 7. The power of the Lord's word is compared with other dynamic and subtle powers that are around us every day. The story of Marie and her efforts to use the scriptures to influence an inactive father, a wavering friend, and a Sherem-like antagonist illustrate the power of Scriptures to resist temptation. Filmed at UVSC Orem College (Now UVU) in Orem, Utah. Note: The two World Trade Center towers in New York are featured in this video before they were destroyed on September 11, 2001.
Lay Hold upon the Word 1986 30 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series, volume 8. Electrical and spiritual power are compared. Reading for understanding and then applying the scriptures in our own life are essential skills illustrated by this story. Gary's experiences parallel the story of the broken bow in the Book of Mormon.
A "Mighty Change" 1986 30 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series, volume 9. Three stories illustrate the role of prayer and scripture study in the process of experiencing a "mighty change" of heart. An analogy is drawn between physical birth and spiritual rebirth.
All Things Have Their Likeness 1987 15 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series volume, 10. Two presentations provide visual support for a lesson on interpreting symbolic language in the scriptures. The first presentation, a visual interpretation of the symbols in an ordinance used in Moses' time, emphasizes the elements of blood, ears, hands, and feet. The second presentation focuses on the process of the seed-soil-rain-wheat-flour food chain, which is similar to the revelation-scripture-study-ponder-power-in-your-life chain.
A Lamp unto My Feet 1987 45 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series, volume 11. The word of the Lord is light, which has a variable effect upon people according to their individual perception. This presentation is a visual role play of how the scriptures are used (or not used) to provide direction in the lives of Jed Fischer, his sister Brenda, and two of their nonmember friends. This presentation is also the introduction to a series of "look for" comprehension skills. Filmed at Provo High School in Provo, Utah.
Look to God and Live 1987 30 min. Part of the "Hold to the Rod" series, volume 12. It focuses on the scriptures as a tool to help those who know about God really come to know him. Kelly Jordan is a young man whose lifestyle is alienating him from his family and from God. With the scriptures as a guide, Kelly's mother and father formulate an unusual plan to help Kelly learn to "look to God and live."
A Story Of Strength 1987 28 min. Produced for the sesquicentennial of the Church in the British Isles. Depicts events in the early history of the Church in the British Isles and its strength there today.
How Rare a Possession 1987 64 min. The story of Parley P. Pratt's conversion. Also depicts an Italian pastor converted to the Book of Mormon, which he found unidentified with its title torn off. Shows scenes from the Book of Mormon.
Together Forever 1987 25 min. A documentary about individuals and families whose lives were improved through the Plan of Salvation.
The Prodigal Son 1990 31 min. He had made mistakes. Serious mistakes like taking drugs and hanging out with friends who later betrayed him and beat him up. Mistakes that deeply grieved his father and angered his older brother. Then, finally, change occurred after his former friends left him for dead. After months in a rehabilitation center, his return home was a thrill to all. Except his brother. Burdened by Pride and resentment, he disbelieved his prodigal brother's change of heart. The resulting relationship threatened to destroy any hope for peace in the newly reunited family.
Labor of Love 1990 25 min. A returning missionary recounts his experiences of sharing the gospel. Portrays what it is like to be a missionary. Excellent tool for encouraging young men to prepare themselves for missionary service.
On the Way Home 1992 33 min. A family grieves after their daughter dies, before learning how they can be reunited through the Plan of Salvation.
To This End Was I Born 1992 27 min. A depiction of Jesus Christ in the final days in the Passover supper, the suffering in the Garden of Gethsemane, the trail in Jerusalem leading up to his crucifixion on the cross at Calvary, the spirit world and his resurrection from the tomb. Music composed by Kurt Bestor.
The Maze 1992 10 min. A teenage competition through a maze is used as an analogy to show how the scriptures help us get through life.
The Mountain of the Lord 1993 72 min. Wilford Woodruff recounts the story of the building of the Salt Lake Temple, in a film commemorating the centennial of its dedication.
Legacy 1993 52 min. Follows the life and struggles of a small group of early converts to the church, beginning in the eastern United States through their journey and settlement in pioneer Utah. [4]
The Mediator 1994 11 min. A portrayal of the analogy Elder Boyd K. Packer used in his April 1977 general conference address. A young man who fails to pay a debt is saved from the grasp of justice through the mediation of a friend.
Firm In The Faith Of Christ 1994 22 min. A grandfather tells his grandson a story about Captain Moroni in Ancient America as an example of a true hero. Captain Moroni tells Zerahemnah and his men to repent and depart with a covenant of Peace or be killed. Moroni's faith and loyalty to the Savior provide an example all Saints should follow.
The Pride Cycle 1994 15 min. An historical illustration of the great pride of the people of Zarahemla in 1st century BC 20 years before the birth of the Savior. The prophet Nephi condemns the Nephite Judges and calls them fools for corrupting the law. The prophet Nephi foretells the murder of the chief judge as a testimony of the wickedness of the people.
My Joy Is Full 1994 4 min. Visuals and music highlight the Savior's visit among the inhabitants of ancient America in the 1st century, providing a unique view of his caring, compassion, and love for his children
Oh Ye Fair Ones 1994 5 min. A LDS Church video taking place around the 5th century in Ancient North America in the downfall of the Nephite Nation. As he and his son Moroni behold the hundreds of thousands of Nephites slain in the last great battle with the Lamanites, Mormon laments, "O ye fair ones, how could ye have departed for the ways of the Lord."
The Touch 1996 10 min. The "Woman" knew the world had much to offer - except to her. Condemned by the Levitical law that pronounced anyone with an "issue of blood" unclean and untouchable, her life was one of shattered hopes. All she wanted was to be normal, to be loved. But it seemed impossible - everyone around her knew of her twelve-year affliction.
The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd 2000 67 min. Portrays events that occurred in the Book of Mormon from shortly before Jesus' birth until shortly after His visit to the peoples of the Americas. [5]
Finding Faith in Christ 2003 30 min. A depiction of Jesus Christ's life, including the ministry in Jerusalem, his suffering and death on the cross and his resurrection from the tomb.
Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration 2005 60 min. Portrays the life of Joseph Smith, Jr.; released in commemoration of the 200th anniversary of Smith's birth. [6]
Meet the Mormons 2014 78 min. Documents the lives of six devout Mormons living across the world. Received a PG MPAA rating, and was distributed by the LDS Church to movie theaters, both firsts for the church. [7][8]

References

  1. ↑ "The Search for Truth". Mormon Literature & Creative Arts Database. Brigham Young University. Retrieved 2015-06-03.
  2. ↑ "Man's Search for Happiness". Mormon Literature & Creative Arts. Brigham Young University. Retrieved 15 January 2011.
  3. ↑ "The Last Leaf". Mormon Literature & Creative Arts Database. Brigham Young University. Retrieved 2015-06-03.
  4. ↑ "Legacy". Brigham Young University. Retrieved 15 January 2011.
  5. ↑ "The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd". Brigham Young University. Retrieved 15 January 2011.
  6. ↑ "Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration". Brigham Young University. Retrieved 15 January 2011.
  7. ↑ "LDS Church invites movie goers to "Meet the Mormons"", Daily Herald, 17 September 2014
  8. ↑ Pugmire, Genelle (17 September 2014), "Coming soon to a theater near you: 'Meet the Mormons'", The Salt Lake Tribune

Further reading

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