The Saratov Approach is a true story about two American Mormon missionaries who were abducted and held for ransom while serving in Russia. The movie is directed by Garrett Batty and was released in 2013. It is based on the actual events that took place in 1998 and tells the story of Elder Travis Tuttle and Elder Andrew Propst.
The movie begins with Travis and Andrew, who are new to the missionary work, being assigned a new area to serve in Saratov, Russia. While there, they meet a young man named Nikolai who asks them to teach his friend about the church. They agree to meet with his friend but are ambushed by a group of men who kidnap them and hold them for ransom.
Tuttle and Propst initially try to fight back but are quickly overpowered by their captors. They are held hostage in a small room and beaten repeatedly, with the kidnappers demanding a ransom from their families and the Church.
As news of their abduction spread, people around the world pray for their safe return. Their families work tirelessly to raise the ransom money, while the Church sends representatives to negotiate with the kidnappers.
Throughout their ordeal, Tuttle and Propst remain strong in their faith. They pray and sing hymns to keep their spirits up and find comfort in each other's company. As the days pass, they begin to develop a bond with their captors, who start to see them as more than just hostages.
The movie is a testament to the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit. It shows how even in the darkest of times, hope and love can prevail. The Saratov Approach is a moving and inspiring true story that will leave you with a sense of gratitude and awe for the bravery of these two young missionaries.