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Church & State is a thought-provoking documentary film that centers on the controversial ballot initiative in Utah in 2015 that aimed to prevent same-sex couples from receiving legal recognition for their relationships. The film takes the viewers on a compelling journey through the dramatic events of that time, showcasing the complex debates, political strategies, and human emotions that surrounded the issue.

Directed by Holly Tuckett and Kendall Wilcox, Church & State is a powerful and engaging film that combines personal stories, expert commentary, and historical footage to delve deep into the heart of the political and cultural conflict that arose in Utah during the 2015 legislative session. Through interviews with key players on both sides of the debate, the film explores the complex intersection of religion, politics, and civil rights that characterized the campaign.

At the center of the film is Mark Lawrence, a lawyer and longtime advocate for LGBT rights, who spearheaded the campaign to overturn the ban on same-sex marriage in Utah after a federal court ruled it unconstitutional. Lawrence's unwavering commitment to the cause, his personal struggles with his faith and sexuality, and his poignant reflections on the human toll of discrimination make him a compelling and relatable figure.

Another key figure in the film is Jim Magleby, a prominent Republican strategist who helped lead the opposition to the ballot initiative. Magleby's insights into the political machinations behind the campaign, as well as his critical reflections on his own deeply-held beliefs, provide a fascinating contrast to Lawrence's perspective.

Through Lawrence and Magleby's stories, the film exposes the deep divisions that existed within Utah's political and religious communities during the 2015 campaign. While supporters of the ballot initiative argued that it was necessary to protecting traditional marriage and the family, opponents saw it as a blatant attack on LGBT rights and an affront to the state's progressive values.

But Church & State is not just a political film. It is also a deeply human and emotional story that captures the personal struggles and triumphs of those on both sides of the debate. The film features moving interviews with same-sex couples who were directly impacted by the law, as well as with church leaders and activists from across the political spectrum who worked tirelessly to sway public opinion.

One of the most striking aspects of Church & State is its ability to capture the complexity of the issue without reducing it to simplistic soundbites or caricatures. The film acknowledges the deep-seated cultural and religious beliefs that undergird the opposition to same-sex marriage, while also highlighting the human consequences of discrimination and intolerance.

Overall, Church & State is a timely and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on one of the most contentious and divisive issues facing society today. With its powerful storytelling, insightful commentary, and richly-drawn characters, the film will leave viewers with a deeper understanding of the human impact of political debates and the power of activism to effect change in even the most challenging of circumstances.

Church & State is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.