"States of Grace': Mormon film transcends its niche

Every genre has a milestone classic, and with "States of Grace," contemporary Christian drama can finally claim one of its own. While "classic" may be overly generous, this upright and thoughtful film boasts a level of quality and noble purpose that Hollywood has all but abandoned. Instead of being marginally released in rented theaters, it could proudly hold its own in multiplexes if given a chance.

Movie review

Showtimes and trailer

"States of Grace" (aka "God's Army 2"), with Ignacio Serricchio, Lucas Fleischer, Rachel Emmers, Lamont Stephens. Written and directed by Richard Dutcher. 128 minutes. Rated PG-13 for gang-related violence. Bella Botega II (Redmond).

This Mormon-produced feature is vibrantly relevant to today's youth. Like the recent release "ATL," it's defiantly upbeat while acknowledging the hazards of a dangerous world. But where "ATL" emphasizes positive choices and personal responsibility, writer-director Richard Dutcher (in crafting this sequel to 2000's "God's Army") enhances those values with a devout yet fallibly human tenacity of faith in secular society.

It's not "us vs. them" but rather "us among them," beginning when Mormon missionaries Lozano (Ignacio Serricchio) and Farrell (Lucas Fleischer) save the life of a gang member named Carl (Lamont Stephens) after a drive-by shooting. Carl's sincere desire for Christian conversion is handled with low-key credibility, and his spiritual transition coincides with subplots involving the salvation of a homeless preacher (Jo-Sei Ikeda) and a crisis of faith when Farrell breaks his vow of celibacy with an actress, Holly (Rachel Emmers).

All of these characters are exceptionally well-developed through Dutcher's authentic dialogue, and the finest scenes achieve a quiet piety that John Ford would appreciate.

Jeff Shannon: j.sh@verizon.net