The Saratov Approach

source: The Saratov Approach

I just got back from seeing this film tonight and I was totally blown away. We were lucky enough to have the real Elder Tuttle ask questions from the audience after the film. He said the movie was at least 95% accurate to what actually happened when he and Elder Pobst were kidnapped for ransom. These young missionaries were beaten and had guns held to their heads. This is not your typical Mormon feel good, corny film. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. The filming was raw and very professionally done. I was moved by the inspiring reality of what these 2 young missionaries went through. I highly recommend seeing this film. I would love to see more theaters offer this type of quality movie to the public. It's not very often that a director will accurately portray 95% of the true story. Great details throughout the film!

I never write reviews for movies but this movie I couldn't resist. This movie had me shaking the whole time because I didn't know what to expect. Its based on a true story. When this incident happen I was a little young to understand what was going on or even heard about it. So I had no idea what to expect. It was intense but not too intense that you are feeling bad after. Its truly inspiring. A movie for everyone no matter religion you are. When it comes out on DVD I'm gonna get it for sure. I loved it. And I know anyone that watches will too. I would watch it again in theaters. Hope this movie gets more recognition because it truly deserves it.

This movie keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to the end. I laughed and I cried, my heart and soul were touched beyond words. This is in my top 5 movies of all time. The movie is about two young men as missionaries in Russia and takes you through the profound change that happens to them over the 5 days that they were held captive. It was intense and just when you could not handle another moment, something funny or beautiful happens. The balance in this film is pure genius! The director Garrett Batty, used amazing technique, insight and classic film making that gives this film that extra something. This movie is tight and solid! Last but not least is the musical score, it is AMAZING!!! Congratulations to all of the actors, director and crew for making this film a must see of the decade!!!

Its hard to come up with the words that adequately describe my feelings during the movie. I laughed, I cried, I said "Amen" during their prayers...I was definitely moved. I encourage all of you to go see the movie. Although it is based off the LDS experience of serving a mission I really think that it appeals to those of any religion. It is a really strong story of faith...faith in Heavenly Father, faith in the power of prayer, faith in your family and friends and church and most of all faith in yourself, Gods plan for you and His ability to provide. It was also very refreshing to talk to one of the missionaries the movie was based on and to hear him say that this movie was pretty spot on in regards to the events that took place.

For me, if a film's heart (story) is forced or not compelling - it really doesn't matter what 'sweeteners' are put on top. It is lacking. I am pleased to report that this film is solid thru and thru. Starting with a great re-told story of real events, we understand more than just the 'facts' - like a good book, I got into the heads of both captors and cap-tees. I felt all their struggles and coming to grips with their situation. In short I felt I was living this out watching it. Never once was I taken out of the moment. I hear that the budget was low on this film but never 'felt' this. The acting, photography, and music just seem so high quality. I highly recommend this film.

I absolutely loved this movie. Being a Mormon who served a 2 year mission probably made the movie more relatable than it would be to the non Mormons out there. What I like best was the accurate portrayal of the LDS Church, specifically LDS Missionaries. Unlike the how Mormons are portrayed in Big Love, The Book of Mormon Musical and Millions, this picture is able to tell a compelling story, without being insulting and staying true to LDS culture. I don't think one needs to be LDS to enjoy the movie, but do think that Mormons in general will find it more enjoyable. For people who are offended by Christians or religion in general, I would fear that the movie would come off a bit "preachy" Having said that, I see it as a very accurate portrayal of LDS life.

I served a mission for 2 years in Korea and would encourage any former or future missionary to see this. Brings back a lot of memories. My son just got his mission call to this same area in Russia so it was hard for my wife to watch but we were grateful to the producers for making the young men seem real and not some awkward zealots. We're all on this earth together and this movie taught a good lesson in how we can be better human beings. For the drama, action, and most importantly, the story line, I give it a 10! OK, now that that is over, on to the technical review. The acting was very good for the most part. One part with crying was not the best acting job. Camera work was great except for a scene when there was too much movement/shaking. Film editing was very good, overall production, sound, script and casting were great. Very impressive plot progression and surprisingly good humor interjections. As for the PG-13 rating. I suppose, to be true to a hostage situation, it needed to be enforced due to the violence. Fortunately there was no vulgar language or sexual content. I would say it is definitely safe for 13 and up, and maybe a mature 11 or 12 year old. 10 and under...let them have their innocence a little longer! Great work. Hope to see some more great films like this in the future.

I just returned from this movie. I have seen a lot of the LDS-themed movies, and most were OK, but just OK. This? Impressive. It was shot simply. The scenes were simple. Its strength was in that simplicity. That gave the actors rooms to act, to show the gamut of emotions that these two young men struggled with, to see them strengthened by their faith, yet still struggling, and then, slowly, to let us see a bit into the minds of the captors, to see the missionaries with an opportunity to rely on the arm of flesh to try to save themselves, then to be subtly brought around to relying on the arm of God. Lots to think about.

Brilliant from stem to stern! Every element was simpatico from script to editor; a melding together of time and true talent. The script was tight, the story a true journey into tears and heart pounding suspense, insightful directing, honest and actual actors, skilled cinema photography, and editing that kept the 4th wall out of the shot. I was blown away that 'Red' cameras were used, only the most advanced cameras in Hollywood today – need I say "The Hobbit". Truly, through and through, the first real theatrical, professional film from, what outsiders call, "Mormon Film Makers". I served in Ukraine on my mission (as a volunteer, as all missionaries, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) at the time of the portrayed events and know some of the people, I went there again tonight.