Fair and honest

Let me just say this up front, I am one of Jehovah's Witnesses, so if you consider my opinion biased based on that fact, then feel free not to read or comment on this post.

This documentary was very well done. It beautifully tells two seperate but equally heart-wrenching stories of real people facing tremendous tests of their faith. It delves deeply into the thoughts and feelings of not only JW's but also those non-believers that have dealings with them, whether related or not.

What particularly struck me was the film's trueness and honesty to humans on both sides. Unlike past documentaries, it does not come off as being strognly for or against Jehovah's Witnesses as an organization. Many documentaries have been biased in the past. Even the Watchtower-produced ones have been purposed to present a ideal believer's point of view. (Don't get me wrong, I love our WT videos, but their main purpose is to encourage us to grow in our faith, not to show the real-life ups and downs of Jehovah's Witness)

-- Spoiler Alert:
The fact that Seth, a supposed 'model JW', plays electric guitar to VanHalen over his collection of field-service literature was a brilliant commentary on who we are. My wife groaned a bit at that part and I don't really blame her. It's not exactly idealized behavior, but it is real. Right or wrong, I know many young Witnesses that would likely do the same sort of thing from time to time.
-- End Spoiler

We are real people and we love life, so we like to have fun at the appropriate time. We are also very serious when it comes to taking a stand for our faith. I thought the film showed that wonderfully without being preachy or biased. It's a great window into the sub-culture of Jehovah's Witnesses. Also, if you get the DVD, I highly recommend watching the extra on street witnessing - its great - so true.

Great job Joel and Tom! And thank you.