When Richard Dutcher wrote and directed “God’s Army,” a 2001 movie about the struggles of idealistic LDS missionaries negotiating the reality of Los Angeles, he instantly became a Mormon hero. Dubbed “the father of modern Latter-day Saint cinema” after the film became an indie hit, Dutcher disappointed his Mormon fans with his sequel, “States of Grace,” that came out in 2006. With his latest, “Falling,” he completes his separation.
The story of a Mormon videographer who loses his faith, besides being perhaps the first “R-rated Mormon film” according to the L.A. Times , “Falling” is an exploration of Dutcher’s own falling out with the Latter Day Saints in what he calls “a very frustrating enlightenment.”
As art has become synonymous with questioning, it’s the rare artist who can openly investigate his or her feelings about his or faith without asking uncomfortable questions. There is always the risk of asking, as Dutcher did, “What if it’s all not true?” Ironically, he says, “It’s the films that allowed me to progress spiritually to the point I left Mormonism.”
Of course, some would call this not progress, but a loss. Read Dutcher’s story and decide for yourself. The Times adds a sidebar on recent films that have offended various faiths.
|
Previous Posts
UNDEFEATED is an Uncommon Film: Share Your Story For a Chance to Win a $500 Giftcard to Sports Authority
UNDEFEATED, the new documentary from the Weinstein Company (opening in limited release this Friday), is the real deal. It's one of those perfect, real life underdog sports stories that are only captured on film once in a long while (ala Hoop Dreams). It follows the hopes and dreams of the Manassas
posted 12:35:58am Feb. 13, 2012 |
read full post
»
Exclusive Interview with Rachel McAdams & Channing Tatum, Stars of "The Vow", on Relationships
I had the chance to sit down the other weekend with Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum and talk about their new film (opening this weekend, Friday, February 10th ) called "The Vow."
Now, just so you know, I am NOT the target demo for romance films. Maybe, MAYBE, once in a blue moon I'll enjoy the
posted 2:57:16pm Feb. 08, 2012 |
read full post
»
Is Your Dad the Greatest Dad of All Time?
Dad's are awesome! (although, being one myself, I am a bit biased) And if you think your Dad is awesome - no, if you think your Dad is the GREATEST DAD OF ALL TIME!!!! - then we want to hear about it! Just leave a comment below using a valid email address and tell us in as much detail as you want wh
posted 2:19:28pm Dec. 30, 2011 |
read full post
»
Show Review: Reaching Generations with Switchfoot
Switchfoot performing on the Tonight Show
Switchfoot’s debut album Legend of Chin came out in 1997, it was a fun, anthemic rock album that stretched the boundaries of Christian rock. Fourteen years later, the band is still bringing it. Seeing Switchfoot live at the National in Richmond, VA
posted 3:12:06pm Dec. 06, 2011 |
read full post
»
Mitch Albom's 'Have a Little Faith' Inspires
Mitch Albom is world famous for his moving and inspirational books. “Tuesday’s With Morrie,” “The Five People You Meet in Heaven,” and “For One More Day” have all spent months upon months on the New York Times bestseller list. His latest book, “Have a Little Faith,” has just been a
posted 2:51:06pm Nov. 22, 2011 |
read full post
»
|
posted September 6, 2008 at 7:44 am
so how long after leaving the church did it take Dutcher to start doing cocaine and taking it up the butt? DIDNT TAKE VERY LONG FROM WHAT I HEARD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
posted May 4, 2009 at 10:21 am
Richard Dutcher himself has stated that he is not a drug addict nor gay: http://mormonstories.org/?p=257.
If anyone has evidence to the contrary, how about linking to it or spelling it out here rather than making such unsupported claims?
posted June 11, 2009 at 2:31 am
New interview with Dutcher, in which he discusses “Falling” in detail (in addition to his other five films–”God’s Army,” “Brigham City,” “States of Grace,” “Girl Crazy,” and “Evil Angel”), and also talks about his two films he’ll be shooting later this year:
http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-9888-Salt-Lake-City-Film-Events-Examiner~y2009m6d10-Falling-My-interview-with-Richard-Dutcher