This is a story about two Mormon missionaries, the girl that lives next door, a homeless preacher man, and a gang member, all living in Santa Monica, California. They are going about their daily routine when the missionaries witness a drive-by shooting and the aftermath that goes along with it.

This is a great film all around. We didn’t really know what to expect, we just knew that we wanted to see it. From other Mormon movies we’ve seen, this one looked a lot more appealing than most. And turns out it is not only a film that Mormon people will enjoy, this one is for the masses.

Not fifteen minutes into the film, the drive-by shooting occurs and the intensity holds steady throughout the duration of the film. The movie achieved this not only through action but through emotion as well. This is an interesting look at human nature and the mistakes that good people with good intentions make and how everyone can overcome the skeletons in their closets. Though the movie was serious and did not focus on the sunny side of life, we left the film feeling hopeful and were reminded that we are all of great value despite our imperfections. That may sound vague, but if the plot is discussed further, it would ruin what’s in store for the viewer. One thing’s for sure, this is seriously one intense drama.

This review couldn’t end without mentioning the great performance by the cast. Honestly, we’ve seen these actors in virtually nothing before and they all gave star performances, every single one of them. We hope to see these folks again in something else very soon.

On a side note, sometimes this film is called States of Grace: God’s Army 2. Don’t let that fool you. There was a movie called God’s Army, directed by the same guy, but this is has nothing to do with the first one, so don’t think you have to see that one first, because you don’t.

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