Elder Jeffrey R. Holland and singer David Archuleta recently participated in promotional efforts for “Meet the Mormons,” a feature-length documentary produced by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that will be released in theaters Oct. 10. Elder Holland is featured in a new video introduction posted on the film’s YouTube page Sept. 19, while an Archuleta song, which will be featured in the movie, became available to download for free Sept. 28.
In the video promo, Elder Holland, of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, explained the documentary's evolution from a film that would only be showed on Temple Square to a major motion picture that will be shown in theaters across the United States.
“After watching the film, our test audiences were more likely to consider us as Christian, understand more clearly the correct name of the church and be respectful,” Elder Holland said. “Most importantly, viewers had the opportunity to witness people striving to follow the Savior and the difference that that had made in their lives. Having never seen results like this before, we were determined to make it more broadly available.”
Elder Holland clarified that the movie was not created as a proselytizing tool but rather to “inform and show people what we’re really like.” He noted that the net proceeds from the film will go to charity, specifically the American Red Cross.
He encouraged LDS Church members to see the movie in its opening weekend “if circumstances permit … with or without a friend” but added that going to see the film “is not a commandment or a requirement.”
Meanwhile, a song from the film is available to download on the movie’s Facebook page. The song, titled "Glorious," is performed by David Archuleta, who recently returned from serving a full-time mission for the church. Facebook users can obtain the free download by completing a simple three-step process.
Email: mjones@deseretdigital.com