YembiYembi: Unto the Nations

Filmmaker Jesse Low's Christian documentary focuses on the colorful adventures of married American missionaries Brooks and Nina Buser, who left their comfortable San Diego life in the early 2000s to go to Papua, New Guinea, where they joined a new mission among the remote YembiYembi tribe. The film traces the hardships involved for the Busers in making both the move and the commitment to stay for years. But it also details the rewards that came with their methodical approach to integrating into the community and gaining trust through teaching the Bible. Cultural immersion, learning the language and customs, clearing an airfield, and building a solar-powered home were among the huge tasks before the Busers, and along the way they won the confidence of the YembiYembi. Viewers will see footage of the Busers and other missionaries trying to explain the story of Christ's death and the concept of the Resurrection, although not everything was well-received by all of the native people (the Busers were the targets of death threats from non-believers). A solid and inspiring tale of a committed missionary couple, this is recommended. Aud: P. (T. Keogh)