Beyond and Back (1978)
Beyond and Back, a 1978 documentary, invites viewers to explore the enigmatic realm of near-death experiences (NDEs). Directed by James L. Conway, this thought-provoking film delves into the mysteries that lie beyond our mortal existence.
The Premise:
The film, produced by Sunn Classic Pictures, focuses on individuals who have faced clinical death and returned to life. These survivors share their encounters with the afterlife, offering glimpses into what lies beyond the veil of mortality. Beyond and Back tackles the profound question: “Is there life after death?”
Production and Background:
- Sunn Classic Pictures: Known for its low-budget message movies, Sunn Classic Pictures aimed to present scientific evidence supporting Christian theology. Beyond and Back was part of this series, alongside other films like In Search of Noah’s Ark (1976) and In Search of Historic Jesus (1979).
- The Filmmakers: The screenplay, penned by Stephen Lord, drew from the book by evangelist Ralph Wilkerson. Director James L. Conway, previously involved in Sunn’s speculative fiction film The Lincoln Conspiracy, helmed this exploration of the beyond. Cinematographer Henning Schellerup captured the visuals, drawing from his diverse background, which included both mainstream and adult films.
- Filming Locations: The movie was shot entirely in Utah, with scenes filmed in Park City, Salt Lake City, and Heber.
Content and Reception:
- Near-Death Experiences: The heart of the documentary lies in the firsthand accounts of those who have glimpsed the other side. These narratives range from tunnels of light to encounters with deceased loved ones.
- Born-Again Christian Perspective: Rooted in a born-again Christian worldview, Beyond and Back seeks to affirm faith and explore the possibility of an afterlife. Producer Charles E. Sellier Jr., a devout Christian, believed that his filmmaking endeavors were guided by divine purpose.
- Critical Reception: Critics had mixed reactions. Janet Maslin of The New York Times criticized the film’s inability to provide definitive answers, likening it to “real malarkey.” Roger Ebert, in his Chicago Sun-Times review, gave it a mere one star, suggesting that the film left audiences with more questions than answers.
Box Office Success:
- Beyond and Back defied expectations. Its box office earnings are reported as either $23,784,000 or $11.7 million. The film’s unconventional release strategy—screening primarily in smaller towns and drive-in theaters—allowed it to bypass major media scrutiny.
Legacy and Reflection:
- While some dismissed it as sensationalism, others found solace in the stories shared. Beyond and Back remains a testament to humanity’s enduring curiosity about what awaits us beyond the threshold of life.
In the quiet moments when we contemplate existence, this documentary beckons us to peer into the unknown—a realm where life and death intertwine, leaving us with more questions than answers.
