The Social Documentary

8: The Mormon Proposition

My Thoughts: This is a hard movie to talk about because unlike Fish Out of Water, this film deals heavily with politics and religion. I will start by saying that I do fully agree with the views put forward in this movie, but the film makes it seem as though all Mormons are radically against gay marriage, which is a generalization. I think people are allowed to believe what they believe, but when they want to take away the civil rights of other people and condemn them as second class citizens because of who they are, I cannot support that; that isn’t free speech or freedom of religion, that is pure hate. I think the Mormon church overstepped its bounds by putting millions of dollars into their Yes on 8 (I, II) campaign because they are imparting their beliefs onto those outside of the church. If they don’t want to support or be apart of the gay community, they are free to do so, just as those in the gay community should be free to marry, if they want.

Why it Works: As a film, it was a bit more all over the place than the previous films I’ve written about, but that could be because the topics—homosexuality, religion, and politics—are probably the most controversial topics in America right now. But what the film did have going for it was its ability to appeal to the viewer’s emotions; this film will make you sad, angry, disappointed, and disgusted all within minutes. There are a lot of personal accounts that contribute to this and views of both sides of the topic. Although I believe this film is appealing to those in support of or on the fence about same sex marriage, I feel someone on the opposite end of the issue would discount the film’s credibility.

Explore the Issue Further:

The film — 8: The Mormon Proposition

Californians Against Hate

Stop 8

Fish Out of Water

My Thoughts: As a supporter of gay rights and as a Christian, this documentary not only resonated with my beliefs, but also answered a lot of questions I had about my own faith and societal views. What does God actually think about homosexuality? How can gay people be condemned when one of Jesus’ main teachings is to love your neighbor as yourself?And is same sex marriage acceptable within the context of the Bible? Also, as Christians who claim to live out a life based on a gospel of love, how can they condone open (or any) hatred of another person or group of people? I feel as though this film is perfect for those who may be on the fence about the issue or those people like me who just can’t accept that Jesus would condemn homosexuals to be sinners.

Why it Works: One device that made the film successful is the organization. Dickens begins by  giving the viewer context beyond the issue by sharing her story. She then goes through several Bible verses that are commonly interpreted to deem homosexuals as “sinners;” she uses interviews to explain how each one is twisted against homosexuals and how they can also be interpreted to be accepting of homosexuality or not even be about homosexuality. 

The interviews she uses work in two different ways. First she has member of the LGBT community talking about their own experiences with Christianity. With Dickens’ story, it makes the film personal and intimate. Second she interviews prominent members of the church (reverends, pastors, etc.) on both sides of the issue. This gives her film a huge amount of credibility because these are people who are knowledgeable about the Bible and are looked to for spiritual guidance. And although there isn’t equal representations on both sides of the issue, she does make an effort to present both views.

Explore the Issue Further:

The film — Fish Out of Water

It Gets Better Project

FCKH8

Article — What the Bible Says - And Doesn’t Say - About Homosexuality