The Best Two Years (2004) User Reviews (27)

2nd best LDS film ever (so far)

[FilmLover-4 · 8/10 · 6 March 2004]

The real difference in LDS Films seems to be two things:

1. Acting. Many LDS films have had poor acting. This film had superb acting. My wife and I were shocked at how good the acting was. We kept waiting for sophomoric acting, and only saw minor glimpses of it a couple times. What a treat!

2. Budget for marketing. It seems at least 1/3 to 1/2 the money raised for these low-cost films has to go towards marketing. Not sure this one did that, but hopefully word-of-mouth will spread and build up a decent return for the investors/makers.

I think this film surpasses God's Army because the acting was much more consistent. Many will not agree with me. I still place "Charly" as the #1 LDS film because it had romance (a theme all of these need more of; and not the cynicsim the often have) and a knock-out performance by the title lead, Beery (is that her name?). The actor playing Sam was not as strong, but he held his own most of the time.

Kudos to an unexpectedly good film with "The Two Best Year" just when many people were about to give up on LDS film after the abysmal BoM movie and Pride & Prejudice, which has simply horrible acting.

Best of the genre...

[remay1 · 9/10 · 26 February 2004]

From a production values point of view, this is by far the best of the "Mormon Cinema". The acting, writing, camera work and even the soundtrack are all first rate. The scenery in Holland is very beautiful as well.

The story, superbly acted by an ensemble cast, is familiar. Essentially, a newbie missionary shows up and attempts to fit in with more established, more cynical veterans. The results: After the expected bumps and false starts, they all wind up growing, and benefiting from his presence, spirit and enthusiasm... much to their own surprise. This could have been a movie about a new salesman joining the firm.... a new athlete joining the team... a new peace corps volunteer experiencing a foreign country... etc. It works because the experience is universal enough that we all can relate. But this movie still manages to give this plot vehicle a fresh face.

The humor was all genuine and very sympathetic, but nonetheless satisfying and effective. There was very little of the slapstick, low humor that is usually relied on in this kind of effort. Also, the movie conveys a sense of the actors' faith and mission, without ever being heavy-handed or preachy. They let you see what they do and why they do it, without bashing you over the head with it.

An additional bonus: They managed to make a movie, set in Holland, without a single reference or use of that country's proclivity for loose or kinky sexual mores. Holland was simply where the missionaries were stationed... nothing more. That must be some kind of a modern-day first.

I would encourage anyone, Mormon or not, to see this movie, if the goal is a pleasant, feel good, warm-hearted and funny two hours. That's what the movie promises, and that's what it delivers.

It was wonderful.

[hollower · 9/10 · 28 February 2004]

I was eager to see this film, and when my roommate and I finally did we were not disappointed. Unlike some other Mormon films - the RM and Single's Ward, specifically - this was a movie with a message. It was absolutely hilarious, don't get me wrong, but it was the kind of humour that transcended Mormon culture: you don't have to be LDS to get it. There were parts of it during which I was literally in tears, it was so funny. There were also, however, parts where I was in tears for because I was moved. Watching the spiritual reawakening of Elder Rogers was wonderful, and by no means over-done or ridiculous. And while Kirby Heyborne has been cast in almost every Mormon film made, I was pleasantly surprised by his performance. His character was radically different from his previous characters, and he played it very well. Altogether I loved this movie, and will undoubtedly see it again. It was wonderful.

Every moment counts.

[film-critic · 19 October 2004]

Let me be the first to say that I am not a Mormon, but I found this film entertaining and informative. While The Best Two Years followed the classic Hollywood structure, it did it in such a way that built solid characters, helped progress the plot, and brought Mormonism into the spotlight without being cheap or abrupt. By this I mean this was a very solid movie. I wasn't expecting this when I first began my Mormon adventure through Holland, but by the final credits rolled I was impressed. I was educated more about the structure of the Mormon Mission in this film than any book could have taught me. I witnessed a true building of beliefs and the effects that religion has on those that are willing to accept it. I witnessed people being people and living their dreams. It was amazing, and this film only pushed me into seeing more about the Mormon faith in film.

I would like to comment first that I never realized the 'business' of being a Mormon and doing one of these missions. From what I gathered from this film, they document everything and constantly need to report into a higher authority (outside of God) on how well they are progressing. I realize that there is some level of accountability that needs to be in place for those paying for these men to live in Holland, but I never realized it was similar to a business that you and I shop in daily. There are goals, rewards, and a never-ending struggle to completely satisfy everyone that you come in contact with. This was surprising for me to witness, but also helpful with setting the stage as to the strengths of our characters.

Outside of this 'business' aspect, this was an amazing tale of forgiveness and dedication. I stated before that this was a solid film and a good portion of this is due in part to the reality of the characters. Each of these different men went (or are going through) situations that are not uncommon in our lives. We have all experienced the loss of a loved one to another person, we all have felt dismayed and confused about the path of life, and we have all had to deal with that new person that eventually becomes that friend you never want to let go. Add to this mix an overwhelming feeling of being in a completely different (yet beautiful) country and you have a majority of the emotions, themes, and elements used in this film. While the overall story deals around a Mormon religion, it isn't strange to begin feeling a sense of excitement for your own religion, whatever it may be. This isn't an in your face film that makes you think about becoming Mormon, but instead an opportunity (using Mormon as its foundation) for you, the viewer, to explore your options with God and your religion. If you see it as a Mormon film, and only a Mormon film, you will never see the truth behind this film. This is a film about people and the lives that we lead.

Not only did we have amazing characters and some very powerful themes, but also added to this enormous soup bowl of goodness is some of the most beautiful scenery that I have ever seen. I had never considered visiting Holland before until after I watched this film. Director Scott S. Anderson does a superb job of taking us deep into Holland and showing us the beauty that surrounds it. It only accentuates the beauty of the story that we witness in this film. He also has perfect comic timing for a director. His guidance for these characters was directly on target. I never once felt that I was watching a made-for-TV movie, but instead a film that is drenched in personal emotion. You could tell that Anderson believed in not only the film, but also his religion and experiences. This is a semi-true story based around the life that Anderson led while away on one of these missions.

So, he ensures that there is not any absurd stories or actions that distract us from the main focus.

Overall, I must say I was genuinely impressed. I was not expecting anything from this film when I first begin it, but by the end I kind of wanted to watch it again. To fully enjoy this film you must realize that it is a Mormon film and if you do not perceive it as Mormon propaganda then it will impress you two. It is engulfed in the world of humans and the emotions that we face on a daily basis. It also gives us the perfect opportunity to see how one person (Kyle Harrison) can change the course of several.

Grade: **** out of *****

One of my favorite comedies!

[zgamer · 10/10 · 2 March 2005]

I didn't expect much from this movie when I first bought this movie. I had seen "The Home Teachers" and although it was funny (for a Mormon like me), it was totally corny and stupid. But when I watch "The Best Two Years", "The Home Teachers" was erased from my memory. I enjoyed the movie that much.

It was way better than any other Mormon movie I had seen before. The spirit was still strong in it, the characters were interesting, and overall, it was hilarious. I especially enjoyed Elder Calhoun and his nerdy antics. And even better was Elder Rodgers sarcastic remarks and dry, yet witty humor. I don't think any other Mormon movie comes close to this film.

GREAT DVD EXTRAS!

[blue-7 · 9/10 · 18 October 2004]

Now here's a "SPECIAL EDITION" DVD that really is "SPECIAL"! Not only is "THE BEST TWO YEARS" one of the finest movies made by LDS filmmakers to date, but the DVD has some nice "Extras" that make it a true "Special Edition".

The film is based on director Scott S. Anderson's personal experiences as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while serving in Holland. Some years after his mission he wrote it into play form. A version of that play (as performed at the Promised Valley Playhouse in downtown Salt Lake City) is included as part of this DVD. You can watch it all my itself or in conjunction with the movie itself.

The DVD also includes a Filmmakers Commentary and an Actors Commentary track as well as a Making of Documentary, Outtakes & Deleted Scenes, Production Gallery and Trailers. Now that's quite a package.

The film itself is very well done, with nice location photography shot in Holland. The performances are first-rate and the directing and script sharp. Watching the film and then seeing the play version makes for an insightful look at how something personal makes it to film.

Note: If you have trouble locating a seller of this DVD, then you might want to try Deseret Book Company or Seagull Book & Tape. This one is worth tracking down. A special "Thank You" to HaleStorm Distribution for doing such a nice job on this DVD release.

Mormon movies about missionaries, brilliant!

[IamRobinHood4 · 9/10 · 28 April 2005]

The Best Two Years is truly a movie for those of us who know a guy or girl on a mission. In the beginning we meet three Mormon missionaries out in the field. Elder Johnson and Elder VanPelt are doing everything they're supposed to, but Elder Rogers is having problems. Today, they will pick up his new companion, Elder Calhoun. As they describe what the worst companion would be like we get a taste of their sense of humor. And behold! All their predictions come true. The missionaries go through a series of trials and triumphs, including Elder Johnson's girl sending him a "Dear John"! We grow closer to the characters as the movie progresses and in the end, grow to love them and the word "flip".

Brilliant.

[fuzzycowslippers122 · 10/10 · 21 October 2004]

I've seen this movie numerous times and each time i see it, i love it more and more. KC Clyde is possibly one of the greatest actors to ever live. KC! I MISS YOU ALREADY:-D Anyway. The movie is down-right brilliant. Its not just a good "mormon" movie, but its a good movie in general. I have to write 10 lines on this so... uh, i don't really know what else to write. I guess i could say my favorite scene? Yea, okay. My favorite scene would possibly be when Elder Rogers is listening to Elder Calhoun try to learn dutch and he helps him make the sound he needs to make, and instead, elder calhoun makes some sort of odd sound. Okay. Just watch the movie. I love it.

Land of the Tulips

[bkoganbing · 6/10 · 25 March 2012]

After seeing a number of LDS produced films of late I think I'm getting a good grasp of what the missionary experience is all about. This latest one features some fine acting and nice location shooting in The Netherlands, specifically in the city of Haarlem.

With the most limited of contact with the world they come from these young men and in some cases young women go out in the world preaching the tenets of the Mormon Church. Proselytizing is not something I would normally encourage, but the message seems to be good public relations for the church, if converts come they come. Bearing that in mind my own experiences with Mormon Elders my whole life has been positive which is to say I'm not about to become one. It's a lot better with them than with Protestant evangelicals or Catholic reactionaries.

Which brings us to The Best Two Years and the fact that the young folk give up some good years to do the church thing. That includes personal relations which are put on hold just as if one goes to war. And occasionally like our GIs have experienced the Elders get Dear John letters.

Which is what happened to KC Rogers and the other two who live in his four Elder apartment are concerned he's lost the zeal. But he's getting a new Elder partner in the person of Kirby Heybourne. Maybe that will shake up the chemistry among the four who also include, Cameron Hopkin and David Nibley.

I've seen Kirby Heybourne in a few LDS films now and I have to confess I've become a fan. The young man has a really great range as a player, doing all kinds of very different parts. I recently saw and reviewed Sons Of Provo where he plays part of a boy band trio and him playing the rather earnest but dorky Elder Calhoun in The Best Two Years. He's a convert himself, his parents are not LDS members and he's got the zeal of a convert if not the skills down just yet.

Without going through the whole plot, let's say Heybourne has a positive effect on all around him.

The only weakness of The Best Two Years is that I think it's too insular and definitely marketed for Mormon audience. A lot of outsiders might not get a lot of the subtleties of the Missionary experience. Still it's a fine piece of work, just not necessarily for all of us gentiles.

Greatest LDS Movie Since "Gods Army"

[trevorpace · 10/10 · 26 February 2004]

I just got back from seeing this and I loved it! This movie had it all, hilarious moments, inspiring and emotional storytelling, great acting, and even a great scenic background of the Netherlands! This movie shows the hardships a missionary faces and the reasons why people go on missions in the first place! Some major high points were Kirby Heyborne who showed that he had range and could come to be a really great actor for LDS cinema. I also loved Scott Christopher who didn't over act or become a burden, in fact he was definitely a highlight in this movie! I went to this movie with a lot of returned missionaries and they all could relate to the story. I suggest this movie to all those who want a see a movie that is fun to watch and one that everyone can enjoy! I hope that these kind of movies continue to be made!

Well worth the time watching!!

[MrBallroom · 10/10 · 27 March 2005]

Up until the time it was made, 'The Best Two Years' was by far the best film made for LDS audiences on a number of fronts: First, it was well produced by a great ensemble cast; second, Kirby Heyborne was in a role that truly allowed him to stretch into the kind of actor I suspected he could be once he got away from that horrid role in 'The R.M.', third, it was filmed completely OUTSIDE of Utah and in fact in location in Holland; fourth, it went outside of stereotype; fifth, it did not rely on the continuous 'in' jokes that only Mormons would understand; and sixth, it had a broad appeal that people of all faiths and persuasions could appreciate.

The film starts out as a 'greenie' (brand new missionary) is assigned to this specific area in Holland to a bunch of veteran missionaries. Not having experienced any of the rejection that so many missionaries do such as door slamming, dogs turned on them and the like – remember, he JUST got there – he believes that he alone can make a difference, and is determined to make a difference all by himself. Keep in mind that Holland is one of the most difficult proselyting missions in the world and that many missionaries who serve there come home without having performed any baptisms at all.

Unlike God's Army which had some slapstick humor such as the bathroom scenes where a bunch of 19-year-old boys are playing pranks on each other, this movie handled the missionary experience with a great deal of dignity and class. These years in any young man's life are tough enough as it is; whether on active duty in the military, in college, on a mission as these young men were, each of them find themselves faced with choices they will be making that will affect them for the rest of their lives. Their ability to look past themselves to the long-term picture is a testament to their faith in God, themselves and to their belief something larger than themselves.

'The Best Two Years' goes to show that for many of these young men that it really is the best two years of their lives to that point, and that this missionary service lays in place a strong foundation on which the remainder of a successful, productive and rewarding life can and will be built. This film was definitely time well spent watching and is a must-add to any film library.

On a scale of 1 to 10, I give this film a 10! ***

funny moments, but too much proselytizing

[morphie1 · 4/10 · 28 March 2008]

Definitely enjoyable and probably great if you are Mormon or even just religious, but secular folks will find the tone very preachy.

The humor was good at spots, but I found that it seemed forced at times too.

There were just too many montage scenes as well.

I have watched the other Mormon comedies and found them funnier than this one.

The length of the film was a problem too. I think it should have been about 1/2 hour shorter.

I think more could have been done with the topic of Mormon missionaries in Holland.

An objective Review

[JackRJosie · 28 August 2020]

Not sure what to review this because my review would clearly be objective. I am supposed to be going on an LDS mission for the church in two months. I was in the mood to see this movie, so as to get a wee glimpse of whats coming ;) I like this movie a lot. As a member of the LDS church i find it rather funny, its definitely the best LDS movie. Would i recommend this to a non-member? Probably not. I think there are too many "Inside Jokes". Its an entertaining heart warming watch. I disagree on some theological levels, i very much so dislike how they make investigators seem like a"Project" or just another number, or how baptism seems to be this finish line and the goal is to get people to this finish line. I dont love that, but overseeing it i like this movie.

Great movie if you served overseas

[cliffordcollins · 9/10 · 30 March 2005]

Some of the acting was forced and not up to mainstream movies, but it is one of the best independent films I ever viewed. The culture shock experienced by the "greenie" is true to life and quite amusing if you actually lived through it yourself. The Elders fighting over the mail and their mood swings based on its arrival was another valid experience. The girl friends "waiting" back home was another issue I found amusing. I guess it is just a part of the whole mission experience captured in this delightful film. The scenery and soundtrack were fabulous and I expect to purchase the soundtrack soon. I was also impressed with the director's ability to tell the story without being too syrupy. I expect Scott S. Anderson's next project to be even better. An out-standing job!

Hilarious!

[zrmoyers · 10/10 · 17 January 2007]

I place it as one of the Best LDS movies ever made. KC Clyde's performance was amazing alongside with Kerbey Heyborne, Cameron Hopkin and David Nibley the interaction and chemistry between the four is spectacular.

The realness of KC Clyde's character's testimony was moving.

The hilariousness of Kerbey Heyborne dialog was great.

And the real chemistry between Cameron Hopkin and David Nibley as companions was great.

All in all a great family film! Worth buying and watching over and over again.

awesome! (if you're LDS)

[jonathanwr · 10/10 · 20 August 2006]

This is a great movie, I loved it! Then again, I'm LDS, and I don't know how a non-Mormon would see it. If you are LDS, I highly recommend it. Be warned though, this is not necessarily a Mormon comedy. It may come across as a comedy, and it does have lots of funny parts, but the movie is so deep the parts aren't nearly as funny as "RM" or "The Home Teachers". If you want a goofier, more hilarious Mormon comedy, you should see one of those movies. This movie is a combination comedy/drama, so don't watch it just for the comedy. Watch it knowing that it's a more thought-over Mormon movie. If you're LDS too, you'll probably love it.

Top Quality - Excellent Film

[dmcdesgn · 10/10 · 19 September 2004]

The string of LDS comedy films that have arrived on the scene during the last couple of years have been fun and have always carried some sort of a positive message even if it takes a little work to figure it out. The film the Best Two Years achieves everything these other movies did and then quite successfully keeps on going. Certainly this film is best described as being on par with God's Army and is probably the only other movie besides Charly that can make this claim. The movie is beautifully shot, well scripted, well acted, quite funny and just the right length. The movie did not draw me to tears as God's Army or Charly did the first time I saw those movies, however that doesn't make this movie anything less. This is an LDS movie for an LDS audience, so don't be surprised if non-members friends/acquaintances don't take well to the movie. It is an excellent family film and would be particularly good to make sure that your LDS teens get a chance to see this one, whether they are thinking about a mission or not.

If you've ever served a mission...

[bakebret · 10/10 · 11 November 2004]

If you've ever served a mission then you will understand the sense of humor that takes place. They did a great job portraying different types of missionaries and mission experiences in such little time. I thought it was a great show and I'd watch it again. It may be a show directed more toward Latter Day Saints rather than the general public in the sense that other religious denominations don't have two year missions and may not understand some humor that comes from 19 year olds when preaching for two years.

Loved it!

[Devillicious14 · 10/10 · 23 November 2005]

Me and two of my sisters saw this movie and we laughed so hard in some of the parts. I have to say out of most of the LDS comedy movies I've seen this one is my favorite.

The acting was brilliant! They did such a good job.

I haven't seen it for a while but from what I can remember it was excellent. I recommend anyone, mormon or not, who hasn't seen it to see it!

Kirby did such a good job. This is his best movie so far.

K.C. Clyde was also very good. I wish he was in more LDS movies because he's a great actor.

What I didn't like about it...if there was anything I can't remember. I'll tell you more when I get it again.

Gotta see.... Maybe

[cdowis75 · 4/10 · 10 June 2005]

**Slight Spoilers** If you are Mormon, you "gotta see" this movie. It has the obligatory mission stuff -- cute fights between the Elders, the "Dear John", the greenie jokes, etc. In other words, lots of inside jokes for the LDS audience.

Overall, a good movie with a "coming of age" theme. We find someone on a full time mission who really does not want to be there. Betrayed by someone he trusted, a former companion, he is just sitting around wondering "Just what am I doing here". And we take the journey with him to discover the answer.

I found this to be a professional film -- editing, acting, good humor. The scenery and story line makes this a very interesting movie.

Comedic Look at Growing Up.

[denquaid · 25 February 2004]

I've read the other reviews and I agree that when viewing this movie from the perspective of being native to the Netherlands it appears cliché. Don't feel bad though because the four Missionaries were composites of many Mormon clichés and stereotypes.

But this movie isn't about a country or region. It could have been in any number of the many countries Mormon Missionaries serve.

This movie is about personal growth and the experience that 60,000+ current missionaries and the hundreds of thousands who have came before.

I saw this movie the day it opened in St. George, Utah 9:35pm on a Friday night and it was almost sold out.

I thought the movie was hilarious and the room was full of laughter almost the whole way through.

In addition to teaching the Gospel, missions serve as a time of personal growth. You can see this clearly in three of the Missionaries. Growing in spirituality and maturity is often a bumpy ride, but there's a lot of fun along the way too.

I think that's the point of the movie. Christianity should bring people joy and happiness.

Not Preachy - Highly Entertaining

[nturner · 8/10 · 7 November 2008]

This is one of a number of Mormon-themed films produced by HaleStorm Entertainment, but don't be put off by that as The Best Two Years is not preachy but highly entertaining as well as educating to any non-Mormon such as myself.

This is a tale of four young Mormon missionaries serving their two years in Holland. They are four intelligent young men who suffer all the doubts and problems of anyone their age. The story is told by Elder John Rogers and represents the actual events in the life of the writer. At the beginning of the film, Elder Rogers is a little more that two month from the end of his two years but instead of looking back upon a successful mission, he is in the depths of depression. His girl back home in Utah has found another, and that has knocked Elder Rogers completely off his feet. Instead of nurturing and guiding the new missionaries put under his tutelage (called "companions"), he has managed to discourage and drive them all away. It seems that his first companion and good friend was the one who left at the end of his missionary, went back home, and stole Elder Rogers' girl.

Elder Hezekiah Calhoun and Elder Steven Van Pelt are the companions who share the apartment with Elder Rogers. Calhoun is the mature, level-headed one of the group, and Van Pelt is the wealthy, egotistical, ladies man. Of course, that's ladies man in the Mormon sense of the term in that he has three beautiful girls back home with whom he communicates - committing himself to none. Calhoun and Van Pelt are very much concerned about Rogers' depression and fear that he considers his mission a failure even though he had great success at the beginning.

Elder Rogers is being assigned his last companion in the hopes that he will be able to snap out of his doldrums and rise to the occasion. Thus arrives Elder Emit Johnson, a wide-eyed boy from Texas who is in hopes of accomplishing amazing things during his missionary. Need-less-to-say - as feel good movies go - Johnson's spirit and determination has a great effect upon Rogers.

Most of the scenes of this film take place in the young men's less that luxurious apartment, but there are many scenes of the beauty of Holland when they are out and about on their bicycles dressed in their dark business suits. All of this is accompanied by some better than average music with lyrics that further the story.

The four young actors who play the elders are excellent in their parts and give the viewer a good sense of idealistic young men devoted to a cause. They, along with another young man who plays a convert, make this film an uplifting joy to watch.

Personally, I think organized religions are blights upon the world and that any good accomplished can never make up for all the harm that is done in their names. Obviously, I'm in the minority, so whenever I find an example of the goodness of an organized religion, I welcome the knowledge. The Best Two Years is a genuine story based upon factual events in the author's life and is worthwhile viewing.

It surprised me!!

[eschout · 8/10 · 4 February 2004]

In the beginning of the movie I felt a bit bored. It took a while to realise the theme of the movie. Maybe I still don't get the right intentions of the movie, but that does not matter to me now. After a while watching it I started to enjoy the movie. This was not of the comedy in it, witch is not the best side in the movie, but more that I started to understand what these guy's have to go through in there Mormon lives. I started to get respect for them. However I am not religious and the film did not make me religious too. The movie is located in The Netherlands where I live and I have to say that every cliché of Holland is in the movie. This is not the real Dutch world, but that is often the case if a movie is made in the Netherlands. Technically, you certainly can see that this must have been a movie that didn't cost so much, but that didn't bother me. It is worth to see this movie!!

Best Mormon movie ever.

[abrafocus · 8/10 · 23 March 2006]

Being a Mormon myself, it's hard not to like this movie. Kirby Heyborne does an excellent job, and he deserved a nomination for his performance in this film.

Shot on location in Holland, the story starts with Elder Calhoun, who's an overzealous new missionary, and his companion is Elder Rogers, who's mission is almost over. The zone leader is Elder Johnson, and his companion is Elder Van Pelt.

Elders Coulhoun and Rogers end up teaching an American tourist, who is a little hesitant, but listens to them with a smile.

Eventually, just before Elder Rogers goes home, the American, called Kyle, accepts their message and is baptized.

This is one great movie. Watch it, and you'll love it! My score: 8/10.

This movie should have been called worst 2 hours.

[g-lasterie · 1/10 · 2 February 2004]

I watched this movie because it was located in The Netherlands, the country I live in. It was not only the theme of the movie, people trying to convert Dutch people to the religion of Mormones, but mainly the very bad typing of the movie. This is NOT a comedy but a movie to fall asleep to. It's filled with religious elements and the point is farfetched. Besides that, the details about the Dutch elements were very bad chosen and full of mistakes.

I wouldn't recommend anyone this.