Brigham Young (1940)
Review by Dindrane
Film:
DVD:

Written by Louis Bromfield and Lamar Trotti
Directed by Henry Hathaway
Starring Dean Jagger, Vincent Price, Tyrone Power, Linda Darnell, John Carradine, and Mary Astor

Features:

• Running audio commentary by James D’Arc from Brigham Young University
  
• Script Excerpts
  
• Movietone Newsreel on the premiere
  
• Letter from Vincent Price
  
• Galleries
  

Released by: 20th Century Fox
Region: 1
Rating: NR, safe for most ages
Anamorphic: N/A; appears in its original 1.33:1 format.

My Advice: Rent it if you like Westerns or American history

Brigham Young tells the story of Brigham Young (naturally) and his struggle to lead his Mormon people safe across the Rockies to their promised land of Salt Lake City, Utah. The film not only takes a look at Young (Jagger), but also his inspiration and friend Smith, as played by Vincent Price, and a young couple who represent the souls of the Mormons at large. The film looks initially at Smith’s trial in Illinois, where he discusses his "vision" to lead the Mormons and found a new religion. Young, in one of those small moments in history that presage big things, stands up in the courtroom and says he believes and that he has converted to Mormonism. After Smith’s assassination, Young is chosen to lead the fledging faith to Utah, but Young is constantly battling his own fears about being worthy--and whether or not he has really been chosen by God for this mission.

The acting is quite good. Price is delightful as always, and a lot less creepy than you would expect from him. Power as Jonathan Kent is also wonderful, bringing a dignity and seriousness to the role that suits him, but all without being a prig.

Some viewers may view this film hoping to enjoy more controversy about this much-maligned faith. While polygamy is present in the film, it is not a major feature, nor is it really discussed. If you’re looking for more reasons to hate Latter Day Saints or even to just understand them better, you’re better off elsewhere. This film is a history and an attempt to show the heroism and dedication of the early Mormons.

The extra features on this disc are really quite impressive. The letter from Vincent Price will charm his fans and delight anyone who appreciates this film. Historians and film buffs alike will enjoy seeing the original newsreel on the premiere of the film; it’s always fun to see what Hollywood was like back in the age of real glamour and excitement. The script excerpts are a nice, inexpensively produced feature that more disc releases should duplicate. The real star of the features list, however, is the commentary from James D’Arc of Brigham Young University. His insight and information truly do make the film a more meaningful experience.

Overall, Mormons and others interested in church history should definitely check this out. Fans of American history will also be interested to see how much Young actually affected things, and anyone who is a sucker for someone doing what they believe is right, against all odds, will also enjoy this one. Some leeway was taken with the Young story perhaps to make a good film, but nothing that will turn off the average movie-goer.