American Mormon

Produced by Daryn Tufts, and directed by none other than the dynamic duo of Jed Knudsen and Richard Dutcher, American Mormon delves into the mind of the protagonist, played by Tufts himself, giving viewers a documentary-style comedy with heaping doses of Mormon culture on full display. Released in 2005, this film is less about faith and more a humorous anthropological examination of what it means to be a Latter-day Saint in America.

American Mormon unfolds as a road trip across the United States that seeks to deconstruct stereotypes, answer burning questions, and provide insight into the varied and rich tapestry of what people thought of Mormons. Tufts plays a fictional documentarian, sharing laughs and wisdom as he finds ways to challenge and explore the fabric of American Mormon existence in the 21st century.

Jed Knudsen offers up an impressive performance as the steadfast and grounded cameraman, taking viewers along an enlightening journey behind the lens. The chemistry between Tufts and Knudsen provides the film with a strong comical core that resonates throughout the film, making it as enjoyable as it is informative.

The movie kicks off in Times Square, with Tufts asking passerbys what they know about Mormons. Their responses highlight misconceptions, prejudices, confusion, curiosity, and occasionally, insight. Some think that Mormons are synonymous with the Amish, while others believe that they practice polygamy as a fundamental tenet. Armed with a camera and an honest smile, Tufts engages with them all, seeking to understand the outsider perspective of his faith.

From New York, our dynamic duo embark on their documented journey, visiting diverse locations, including the Midwest, South, and Pacific Northwest. At each stop, Tufts chats with Mormons and non-Mormons alike. The conversations offer broad perspectives, from those utterly unaware of the Latter-day Saint faith to those with misinformed views, from recently converted Mormons to lifelong followers steadfast in their faith.

As the story meanders through these landscapes, vibrant tales of faith, cultural differences, and personal insight pave the way for self-reflection and stereotype dismantling. Although Mormonism is, of course, a prominent thread that links the diverse narratives, you do not have to be a follower to appreciate or engage with the film's themes.

American Mormon does not shy away from humor, and Tufts expertly incorporates it into his interactions with the film's participants, creating light-hearted exchanges that reveal profound truth and insights. The film doesn't seek to convert; instead, it celebrates the culture and beliefs of the Mormon community, illuminating the human experience within the context of spirituality and religion.

At its heart, American Mormon succeeds at taking a hard look at the cultural and religious biases that exist, and treats them with humor and intelligence. The film encourages viewers to explore their preconceptions about others' beliefs. It invites the audience to learn and laugh, and to realize that projection of misunderstanding or fear onto others often stems from lack of knowledge about their culture or religion.

Perhaps one of the highlights of the film is its approachability. While it primarily revolves around the experiences and perceptions of Mormons in America, it tactfully handles broader themes of religious belief, cultural diversity, misconceptions, acceptance and understanding. Even those who do not know much about Mormonism can connect with the film's universality and its profound commentary on the human condition.

American Mormon is a gem in the genre, successfully combining humor and sincerity. Tufts and Knudsen's dynamic performances, coupled with a glimpse into a lesser-known culture and religion, create a unique documentary that is refreshing, insightful, and genuinely entertaining. It's a vivid road trip across the United States, one that explores and debunks stereotypes with a friendly spirit of inquisitiveness and a generous dose of humor. American Mormon offers viewers an open and illuminating approach to understanding and appreciating America's diverse cultural landscape.