Aylmer to Zazzoo and Beyond: October 2013

The Saratov Approach
(2013 - October 9 [Limited])
Action | Drama
1 hr. 47 min.

Rated: PG-13 Tense thematic elements involving kidnapping and hostage situations, guns and some smoking.
Grade: A-

Director: Garrett Batty

Writer: Garrett Batty
Stars: Corbin Allred, Maclain Nelson, Nikita Bogolyubov | See full cast and crew

Two missionaries are kidnapped and held for ransom while serving in Russia. Inspired by actual events, THE SARATOV APPROACH is the extraordinary, untold story of Elders Travis Tuttle and Andrew Propst and their week-long abduction in Saratov, Russia. On what seemed like any other day during their two-year LDS missions, Elders Travis Tuttle (Corbin Allred) and Andrew Propst (Maclain Nelson) are approached by Nikolai (Nikita Bogolyubov) to meet a friend. But then the missionaries experience the unimaginable -- kidnapped, beaten, and held for ransom for nearly a week -- on the other side of the world in Saratov, Russia. While their family, friends and the world pray for their safe return, Tuttle and Propst are tested physically, emotionally and most of all -- spiritually. (c) Saratov Films

This is one of the best films I've seen in a long time. It is a quality production, the script, the direction and acting are all up to par. One negative, at least for my tastes, is the jittery hand held camera technique. I hate that in any movie. This is a film that can take the entire family to see, well, 8 and under might be iffy, you may end up creating mission phobia in your little ones.

Truth is often more incredible than fiction. I remember when this story was playing out in the papers and on the TV. This action/drama will appeal to a universal audience its story is not limited to an LDS audience or market or even those who are familiar with Mormon culture. The Saratov Approach is an uplifting and inspiring experience.

These are the real Elders Tuttle & Propst on the left and on the right, with the the actors who portray them, Corbin Allred, Maclain Nelson, along with director Garrett Batty. They lost contact with each other for several years but are now close friends who keep in touch regularly. They are both fathers with children preparing to serve missions of their own.

Read more and follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saratovapproach