4 Must-Watch Movies Featuring Brigham Young Following American Primeval

American Primeval has thrust the historical figure Brigham Young into contemporary discussions, though it is not the first cinematic portrayal of this pivotal character in the narrative of the American West. Recently launched on Netflix, this series serves as an intense and dramatic interpretation of historical events. Despite its factual liberties, the show aims to entertain while featuring key historical figures and moments that have shaped American heritage.

Brigham Young, who served as the second prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints—often known as Mormons—plays a significant role in the series. His portrayal has sparked critiques from historians, including those affiliated with the LDS Church and independent scholars alike. Nonetheless, the series effectively highlights a figure who significantly influenced a critical period in the United States’ history, a theme also explored in numerous other films.

4 Brigham Young

A Heroic Tale of Conquering the Wild West

Released in 1940, the film Brigham Young, later titled Brigham Young, Frontiersman, offers a contrasting perspective of Young, depicting him as a quintessential American hero. However, significant aspects of his life—such as his involvement in polygamy—are notably absent, which casts a shadow over the film’s comprehensive portrayal.

The film draws parallels between the persecution faced by Mormons in the 1830s and the injustices experienced by Jews during World War II. While the analogy may not be entirely accurate, it offers an intriguing glimpse into Young’s early struggles as a leader. Despite its flaws, this film is insightful for viewers seeking a different narrative of Young compared to that of American Primeval.

3 The Avenging Angel

A Fictionalized Retelling of the Danites

Another notable film is The Avenging Angel, released in 1995, which focuses on the secretive and militant group within the Mormon community known as the Danites. These individuals were infamously involved in violent episodes in the 1800s, including the Mountain Meadows Massacre. In both this film and American Primeval, Brigham Young is portrayed as orchestrating these brutal acts.

The narrative of The Avenging Angel centers around a fictional character, Miles Utley, yet it features a remarkable cast, including Charlton Heston as Young. While the film attempts to portray members of the LDS church in a more favorable light, its fidelity to historical accuracy remains questionable.

2 September Dawn

A Widely Panned Exploration of the Mountain Meadows Massacre

Brigham Young played by Terence Stamp in September Dawn

In 2007, September Dawn revisits the grim events of the Mountain Meadows Massacre, drawing unwelcome comparisons to the violence and chaos following the September 11 attacks. The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Jon Voight and Terence Stamp, who portrays Young. Unlike other interpretations, this film directly attributes responsibility for the massacre to Young, claiming he sought to silence any dissent.

The film faced harsh criticism, receiving some of the lowest ratings from critics like Roger Ebert and Variety. Many argue that its narrative is significantly biased against the LDS faith, resulting in a dark, unsettling representation of a tragic chapter in American history.

1 Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration

The LDS Church’s Own Take on Brigham Young

For those interested in a depiction of Brigham Young from the lens of the LDS Church, consider Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration, produced by the church itself. While the film primarily focuses on Joseph Smith, the founder of the faith, it includes Young’s introduction approximately halfway through. Although the portrayal is undoubtedly biased, it provides valuable insights into Young’s significance within the faith’s history.

Collectively, these portrayals of Brigham Young do not create a definitive representation of the man. Instead, they offer diverse perspectives, illustrating Young as a determined and strong-willed leader whose influence shaped early American society. While American Primeval aims to provide an entertaining depiction, it merely glances at the multifaceted truth surrounding this complex historical figure.

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