But this reading may be too simplistic. On the one hand, Christing — who grew up in the Reorganized LDS Church (which is separate from the LDS Church) and now worships with nondenominational Protestants — is clearly impressed by Smith, whom he calls a “charismatic genius.” On the other, he seems intent on treating Smith’s story with plenty of critical detachment.
“A few years ago, there was a lot of heat around the whole idea of the search for the historical Jesus,” Christing tells the Phoenix. “What we’re exploring here is the search for the historical Joseph. Who was this guy? Was he a prophet, a fraud, a polygamist, a politician? We’re really interested in getting at the root of this, because, without Joseph Smith, there’s no Mormonism.”
The film is still being edited, and no trailer was available as of press time, so it’s impossible to say how Christing’s vision will play out on screen. The distribution arrangement for A Mormon President is also unclear; according to Christing, he’s working on both theatrical and broadcast versions, but nothing’s been hammered out yet. Stay tuned — Romney certainly will.
On the Web
Adam Reilly's Media Log: http://www.thephoenix.com/medialog
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