By KATIE PARKER
parker@du2.byu.edu
Last week at the LDS Motion Picture Studio, Academy Award winner Keith Merrill began filming the new movie that will replace 'Legacy' in the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.
'The movie will be based on the teachings and life of Jesus Christ and how he influenced his followers for good,' said Dan Rascon of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' public affairs office.
The title of the new film on the Savior's life has not been released yet, he said.
'For now we just call it Legacy 2,' Rascon said.
The movie takes place in Jerusalem, but filming will be done in Provo, Orem, Palm Springs and Hawaii, said Stephanie Rirey, a secretary for the new film.
'The film recounts both Bible and Book of Mormon stories,' said Kristine Brown, casting coordinator for the Church Office Building.
The film's premiere will be at the beginning of next year, Rascon said.
Keith Merrill is directing the film and is assisted by his son, Dagon, she said.
Over 700 people responded to the request for extras, Brown said.
Auditioners had to fill out an information sheet and get their picture taken. If a person had the look the directors wanted, they were called back and possibly cast, she said.
David Greene, a Provo resident, was cast as a Roman soldier.
Greene said he has been part of a scene involving Christ on a road to Gallilee, carrying His cross through the streets of Jerusalem.
'There is such a neat spirit on the set. The intensity is amazing,' Greene said.
Every shoot is started with a prayer, Greene said.
'Keith Merrill insists on getting the shots that will move people. We will do a scene over and over until we reach the level of emotion that is needed to truly recreate these past events,' Greene said.
Filming in Utah will wrap up Tuesday.
Merrill received an Academy Award for his movie 'American Cowboy' and was nominated again last year for his IMAX film 'Amazon.'
The LDS Church public affairs office said copies of 'Legacy' will not be available to purchase when the film leaves the theater. Because professional actors were used in the film, the LDS Church does not hold complete rights to market 'Legacy.'