Filmmaker T.C. Christensen's most recent movie, "Treasure in Heaven," chronicles the little known story of an early LDS philanthropist. Released in November, the movie follows John Tanner, who was a wealthy landowner and Baptist minister in New York state who converted to the church, then gave all he had to it. Christensen's involvement extends beyond directing and producing the film, as he is a direct descendant of Tanner, though the story deserves to be told regardless of the relationship.
"It wouldn't matter if he was a family member or not, he deserves some recognition," Christensen said.
The film is dramatic, both in its musical accompaniment and its content. It packs a punch early on when Tanner exits a carriage, revealing a severely infected leg. At a doctor's appointment, the physician tells him there's no way to save it, and the limb will require amputation or cost him his life. In a display of faith and stubbornness, Tanner refuses, and is later healed by the missionaries who teach him and his wife the gospel.
The moral of the film revolves around Tanner's generosity. In order to travel with the Saints and aid the financially struggling church, the affluent family sells their hotel, several homes, orchards, farms and 2,200 acres of timberland. The film states that he gave at least $50,000 in cash and assets, and at one point rescues the Kirtland temple from foreclosure. His generosity leaves him destitute within three years.
"He gave everything to the building up of the kingdom," Christensen said. "That's great movie material."
"Treasure in Heaven," has the same feel as Christensen's other works such as "The Pump" and "The Touch of the Master's Hand." Running at just over 20 minutes, its brevity adds to the movie's powerful effect.
Molly Farmer