Synopsis

JANE & EMMA is based on the life of Sister Jane Manning, one of the first black Mormons. She returns to Nauvoo to find that Joseph Smith, her prophet and friend, has been assassinated. Jane spends a ceaseless night with his widow, Emma Smith, sitting watch over the body of the prophet as a whirlwind of loss and confusion leaves them wondering how either one of them will be able to move forward. Through the long night, Jane wonders if the prophet’s promise to extend the blessings of eternity to her has died along with him. The film explores the possible events of that night, including Jane’s endeavor to remain amongst the Mormon people and Emma’s struggle to cope with her heartbreaking loss. Poignant issues of racism and polygamy threaten to break their bond of friendship. In the end, will Jane and Emma have the courage to follow the path each believes they must take?

Trailer

Review

This is a profound movie that might inspire deeper conversations.  It provides us a look into the past when there was a division between people on whether black people should be free or not; a look to the future based on religious beliefs, and the hope for a better world despite tragedy.

Jane is an inspiring woman for her time and her faith is unshakeable.  She leads her family to find a prophet in the LDS faith by walking from New York to Illinois because a boat captain would not let them travel aboard despite the fact that they are free and not slaves.  That is a true testament to faith to walk 700+ miles just to be close to someone in your faith.  Her strength shines through in various situations and she should be admired for standing up for her faith and acceptance.

This movie may be based on the LDS faith the deeper symbolism could be applied to any faith.  There are people in all walks of life that are strong and rise above those around them when defending their beliefs.  I found myself drawn to the characters and wondering how I would act or react if I were in Jane or even Emma’s shoes.  Both of these women were strong in many areas but weak in others including how they handled racism and polygamy.

I was surprised to learn that Jane was never allowed to enter the temple despite being baptized because of the color of her skin.  She continued to fight for acceptance in her faith until her last day on earth.

I think anyone can appreciate this movie and you do not have to be a member of the LDS faith to grasp the significance of the story.

We give this 5 paws up.

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