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KUED encores "The Mormons," the American Experience/Frontline two-part special on Monday and Tuesday, April 5 and 6 at 8:00 p.m.

The acclaimed documentary uncovers the richness, complexities and controversies of the LDS history. The story is told through interviews with leading writers and historians, supporters and critics, as well as active members of the Mormon faith.

Filmmaker Helen Whitney gained unusual access to Mormon archives and church leaders as well as dissidents. The film also involves historians and scholars within and outside the faith. "Through this film, I hope to take the viewer inside one of the most compelling and misunderstood religions of our time," says Whitney.

The second part of "The Mormons" looks at the current realities and challenges facing the Mormon church. With thorough coverage, the documentary traces the Latter-day Saints' transformation from the status of outcasts to mainstream players in U.S. Politics and economy. The film explores the massive missionary program where 50,000 teenagers prosletyze from Honduras to Zimbabwe to gain converts to the global religion that sees as many as 240,000 converts a year.

Whitney explores the intricacies of Mormon theology and ritual in what a New York Times reporter calls "an intriguing discussion of what faith is, what religion is and what the Mormon story has in common with Judaism, Islam and early Christianity."

Associated files: