The World Premiere of The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith

On the red carpet with Chris Gorham, Russell Dixon and Ben Baker

I was SO THRILLED to be part of the world premiere for the new movie, The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith. I loved the first Other Side of Heaven and couldn't wait to see more of Jean and John Groberg's story. (You will love it. Go see it!)

When we arrived, we were treated to a wonderful buffet while being entertained by the OneVoice Children's Choir. I was seated next to Melisa Osmond, Derek, the president of the Utah Film Commission, and two investors of the film. We got to chat with Scot and Maurine Proctor, the owners of Meridian Magazine, and we saw Senator Orrin Hatch there as well. (I took a secret picture.)

Here is us with the Proctors.

Here is my secret picture of Senator Hatch.

Here are the Grobergs with the Proctors 

When we got into the theater, we were treated to another performance by the OneVoice choir and some amazing dancers. John Groberg spoke, as well as the director Mitch Davis, and then it was time for the show!

Elder Groberg speaking to the audience before the screening. What an amazing life he's led!

The dancing was so beautiful.

I have to admit, I wasn't sure what to expect with this movie. When the scene opens we see the juxtaposition of Tonga and Idaho Falls, where John and Jean now live with their four daughters. There were some fun, comedic elements seeing John and Jean as parents while John serves as the bishop of his ward. Chris Gorham fits the role of John Groberg so well, and it is his ease and believability that truly make this film. He is called to be the mission president over his former mission, and he takes his small family back to the islands. Of course, in the first film, he only has to worry about himself in learning a new culture and way of life. Now he has a wife and children to help navigate the waters. (Literally!)

I enjoyed how the director really explored ideals that seem to have taken a backseat in some aspects of our society today---inclusivity, community, and love for people who don't believe what you do or look like you do. There were poignant and moving moments (I did get weepy during one part) balanced with a story that will make you think about it long after you've left the theater. I definitely will be first in line to buy this one when it comes out.