The Work and the Glory (2004)

The Work and the Glory: Directed by Russell Holt. With Sam Hennings, Brenda Strong, Eric Johnson, Alexander Carroll. Recently moved to upstate New York from the comfort of their Vermont homestead, the Benjamin Steed family makes their way into the established social structure of Palmyra. In their attempt to settle peacefully into the new community, they discover that the help they have hired to clear their land is at the center of a religious controversy – a controversy that threatens to tear the family apart. As two of the Steed brothers contend for the favor of a wealthy merchant’s daughter, they find themselves on opposite sides of the religious question. Although the family struggles to smooth the contention, they soon face deeper issues of family loyalty and the pursuit of truth.

“Went with my family to see Wu0026amp;G. I havenu0026#39;t read the whole series but still enjoyed the movie more than I expected to. It was by far the best movie in its genre to date, but still not up to Hollywood caliber. The cinematography and sets was very good and some of the actors were really impressive–especially Joseph and Benjamin. Others did well although at times felt forced. But no cheesy acting which was a relief. Although one or two scenes felt a little too preachy for my taste, overall I thought the spiritual topics were handled tastefully. Especially those moments I would have most wanted to be handled respectfully–i.e. the retelling of the first vision. Iu0026#39;ll likely go see it again.”