Review Archives

1 | 2 | 3

Today's Date is:

The Other Side of Heaven

Before I begin this review, I must warn any potential viewers out there that "The Other Side of Heaven" wears its Mormon pedigree proudly on its sleeve, and makes no apologies for its religious roots and morals. Maybe that's why the film received such a limited theatrical run, and was virtually panned by the major critics as overly preachy and moribund. While everyone has their own opinions when it comes to topics such as those the movie explores, I must say that there are moments in "Heaven" where you find yourself interested in the events and characters, at least enough to where you don't feel like you're wasting your time. ***

The movie is based on the true-life story of missionary John Groberg (played by Christopher Gorham), who went to the Tongan islands in the 1950's in an attempt to bring the values of Christianity to the small community of colorful locals. Leaving behind his one love, Jean (Anne Hathaway), with whom he communicates through letters, John tells her of the initial awkwardness of his presence among the Tongan people, which eventually gives way to respect and kindness between both parties once they welcome him into their lives. As his journey progresses, he comes to face many hardships that bring him into the full realm of adulthood while also strengthening his faith. ***

Whether or not the film is for you depends largely on how you look at its tackling of two colliding cultures. I'll admit that writer/director Mitch Davis doesn't really dive too deep into the background of the Tongans before baptisms and conversions begin taking place, and his movie suffers somewhat from this. Unless you're a Mormon, this is going to seem like propoganda, pure and simple. But the film is well-made and features a solid central performance from Gorham, who anchors the human aspect of the movie with real emotional power. It may as well have a stamp on it that says "For the Already-Converted," but for what it's worth, "The Other Side of Heaven" ranks as a sturdy coming-of-age piece that will find favor with its target audience.

Not one of Disney's greatest, but still a good presentation just the same. The 1.85:1 anamorphic image features terrific clarity and edge sharpness, with only some slight enhancement halos and film grain present. Color fidelity and saturation are excellent, with no bleeding and nice textures throughout. Contrast is well-handled, with solid blacks and good shadow detail. Well-done! ***

The sound is mastered in Dolby Digital 5.1, and while it's not a complete awe-inspiring track, it works with the movie and thus reaps its own rewards. The entire soundfield comes alive on occasion through the score, which is ambient and expansive, as well as through some energetic storm sequences that engage the rears as well as the .1 LFE. The atmospheric sounds of the Tongan islands are fairly decent, and dialogue sounds natural throughout. Channel separation is very nice, and imaging, while largely absent, is admirable when present.