LAIE, Hawaii — "The Testaments: Of One Fold and One Shepherd," which was mainly filmed in Hawaii, is now shown regularly at the IMAX Theater on the grounds of the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii.
The movie is not part of the Polynesian Cultural Center program but is offered to visitors as an additional attraction at no cost. It premiered March 23 to nearly 600 members of the Church and special guests, then opened to the public March 25, playing to full houses the first week as part of an Easter week presentation.
"The Testaments" is a gripping account of the Savior's life and sacrifice in the Old World and His visit to the New World following His resurrection. The story is told through the eyes of fictional characters, such as Helam, devoted father and teacher of the gospel.
"It doesn't matter which church, culture or background you have, everyone comes out of the theater with tears in their eyes and the loving message of this heartwarming film," said President Mark Willes of the Hawaii Honolulu Mission.
Presenting the film in the IMAX Theater offers people from the Pacific nations such as Japan, China and the Philippines, who are not likely to visit the mainland, an opportunity to see this dramatic portrayal of the Savior's life.
Hawaii is considered a melting pot of Pacific Island cultures. Missionaries frequently request copies of the Book of Mormon in a various languages from the mission home, and are taking many people from other countries to the movie.
"The movie has a powerful message and is presented in a compelling way," said President Willes. "With the capacity of the IMAX Theater, I felt strongly that we could use the film to great advantage."
Even though "The Testaments" has not been shown very long, several observations are readily apparent.
"People here see themselves in the movie," said President Willes. "It seems familiar to them and has a personal feeling. People here are coming to identify with the characters and events portrayed in the movie.
"Also," continued President Willes, "the powerful message and the strong spirit of the movie is rekindling testimonies in those who were once active, and is building testimonies in family members and friends who never knew."
Like audiences in Salt Lake City who often leave the movie teary-eyed, audiences in Laie are also emotional. "They come out wiping their eyes. They have clearly been moved by the message."
In the short time since the movie opened, President Willes is finding that members are using the movie as a non-threatening way to introduce the gospel to friends and family. "Members feel totally comfortable knowing their friends will have a good experience with the message of the movie."
The result, believes President Willes, is that once members taste the joy of missionary work they will become more involved.
"We're thrilled with the movie," he said.
Hawaii becomes the third location where "The Testaments" can be viewed. Other locales are the Joseph Smith Memorial Building near Temple Square in Salt Lake City, and the Washington D.C. Temple Visitors Center.
At the Hawaii premiere were director, Kieth Merrill; Al Harrington of "Hawaii 5-0" fame, who had a key role in the movie, local actors Theo Coumbus, Hans Maui Saito and Joy Gardner. President Willes, who was chiefly responsible for bringing the movie to the islands, also attended.
The portion of the movie produced on the island of Kauai used a set that is believed to be the second largest ever built in the islands. Construction crews created a setting of the city of Zarahemla in an area 450 by 300 feet.
E-mail: shaun@desnews.com
