The Work and the Story

The Work and the Story is an independent production comedy-drama directed by and starring Nathan Smith Jones, along with Jen Hoskins and Eric Artell, released in 2003. It is a thought-provoking film that presents a fascinating exploration into the world of independent filmmaking as viewed through the lens of Mormon culture. This movie is a charming and unique mixture of humor, drama, and insight into passion and dedication to the world of film.

The film showcases a fictional narrative about the sudden disappearance of Richard Dutcher–an esteemed viewer's character rather than a real-life person–who pioneered modern Mormon cinema. The film is divided into three segments, each portraying an aspiring filmmaker's efforts to fill the void left behind by the vanishing titan of Mormon cinema.

Nathan Smith Jones, playing a version of himself, is the first protagonist we encounter. The primary narrative arc for Jones, an area director and documentarian by trade, pivots around his inability to stretch beyond his documentary limitations and his subsequent struggle with filming a fiction drama.

The second section brings us to the tale of Judy Schumway, strikingly portrayed by Jen Hoskins. Judy, a strong-willed and assertive woman, who has never directed before, resolves to become the new face of Mormon cinema after Dutcher's disappearance.

Artell's character, a young and idealistic independent filmmaker named Peter Beuhmann, anchors the third segment. Beuhmann is an out-of-stater that ventures into Utah with lofty filmmaking aspirations, harboring dreams of becoming the next big thing in the Mormon film world.

The Work and the Story’s narrative explores themes such as ambition, determination, rivalry, and the nuanced dynamics within close religious communities. It provides a humorous yet authentic depiction of the highs and lows, the joys and struggles, that independent filmmakers often face, from dealing with low budgets to having to juggle multiple roles to bring their vision to fruition. Additionally, it draws the viewer's attention to the passion, the morality, the artistry behind making a movie, inspiring a greater appreciation for independent cinema.

Featuring fantastic performances from its leads, the film masterfully harnesses the natural charisma and comedic timing of Nathan Smith Jones, the assertiveness and focus of Jen Hoskins, and the youthful charm and determination of Eric Artell. Each of the leading actors delivers engaging portrayals, making their characters relatable and interesting.

While the film is inherently set within the realms of Mormon cinema, it is more than just a movie about making a movie. It captures the essence of universal themes such as the allure of fame, the search for identity, and the insatiable human desire for creative expression. In this way, it broadens its appeal, making it not only relatable to the LDS community but equally engaging for anyone intrigued by the creative process and struggles inherent in independent filmmaking.

It’s visually appealing too, with a good mixture of film shots, and the characters discovering what works and what doesn’t adds a layer of brutal realism that strikes a chord with the audience. The writing is quick, sharp, and witty which brings an unexpected but highly enjoyable flavor of humor to the film's inherently contemplative and dramatic themes.

Director Nathan Smith Jones has constructed a clever and unique film that includes a combination of personal biography, social commentary, and filmmaking satire. Much like the central characters in his film's narrative, Jones himself effectively portrays the role of a storyteller, who is not just trying to entertain, but also to speak the truth and provoke thought via his independent cinema.

In summation, The Work and the Story is simultaneously a comedic jab and a loving homage to the world of independent Mormon cinema. It captures the heart and the soul of the creative process that goes into making movies. Laden with both humor and insight, layered over with engaging performances, this film offers a truly unique viewing experience. Whether you are an aspiring filmmaker, a film enthusiast or a person who enjoys interesting narratives, The Work and the Story is a must-watch.