Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story (2025)

[bunniefuu]

[nocturnal animals calling]

[footsteps approach]

[Rich]: Rachel, why don't you

want you to see?

No. No, thank you.

The other ladies

wanted to see.

I... I don't. I really don't.

[chuckles nervously]

I just don't want you to be

surprised by what's next.

Rachel, do you know

how babies are made?

Yes.

How?

You're forbidden

from knowing before marriage.

I just do.

Tell me,

how do you know what

a man and a woman do together?

[exhales]

My father taught me.

[unsettling music]

[echoing footsteps

shuffle and stop]

Rachel, this is

a sacred moment.

We were very privileged

to see the Prophet.

Uncle Roy was the Lord's

messenger on Earth.

Pure. Faithful. Just.

He was chosen by God to

deliver his message to us.

What happens,

now that he's gone?

Your grandfather, Rulon, will

become our new Prophet,

which makes our family

very special.

Almost like royalty.

But you must not tell anyone

that I've shared with you.

Can you keep this secret?

Of course, Father.

Good.

[sobbing]

[Warren]: Keep your eyes down.

Your wickedness will not seep

into the faithful.

They must have done

something bad.

[Warren]: Hello, girls.

Father, what is happening?

Oh, well, the parents,

they object to their daughter

not being able

to pick their own husband.

They must obey God,

or leave forever.

What will happen to them?

Well, to leave,

is to be damned to hell.

Of all the hell's angels,

the apostates are the worst.

They will live a life of agony.

They will never know peace.

But don't fret, if you stay

sweet, you will be blessed.

I never want to leave.

Oh, Heavenly Father sees

you're a good girl.

We shall never be parted.

[grunting]

Do you ever feel like the

walls are more to keep us in

than to keep the bad people out?

Father says it's

to keep us safe.

I don't like them.

You can't see anything.

Wanna play?

We could pretend

to be gentiles.

Yes! I'll be the Prophet.

I'll convince you to repent

and join our church.

Gentiles are always exposing

their arms in public.

It's very strange.

I think I'll live

at the beach.

I saw it

in a photobook once.

Stay focused.

I am the Prophet.

[giggles]

I lead the Fundamentalist

Church of Jesus Christ

of Latter-Day Saints.

[giggling]

I don't really like church.

I like to watch television.

Repent, naughty gentile,

repent!

You shall practise

humility and--

[Alma]: Becky! Rachel!

Shame on you both!

Playing gentiles.

The most wicked of people.

What a disgusting display.

The Prophet was going

to make me good.

We just hadn't gone

that far yet.

Did I say you could speak?

[exhales]

You must never uncover your

arms or your legs.

A boy could see you.

You're inviting impure thoughts.

The outside world reviles us.

They want to steal

our salvation.

This is not a game.

Your souls...

are at risk.

I'll be spanking Becky.

It was my idea to play gent--

Silence. Rachel,

go help your

mother in the kitchen.

You will come to my office

after dinner.

Yes, Father.

Good.

[knock on door]

[door opens]

Oh.

Come in.

[clock ticking rhythmically]

I apologize, Father.

What I did was wicked

and wrong.

[exhales]: I would like

to be punished.

What makes you think

you deserve punishment?

Becky received a correction,

so I deserve one, too.

Oh.

ok

[door shuts, lock clicks]

I've decided to offer

you forgiveness.

Will you admire

the gentiles again?

No?

Good.

Do you know what

your father's job is?

You work for Grandfather Rulon,

our blessed Prophet.

[chuckles]

Yes. That's right.

And he's a very powerful man.

Very.

Anointed by God.

And that makes me very

powerful, too.

And I must be obeyed.

Just as you would obey

the Prophet and God Himself.

I understand.

I know you do.

[chuckles lovingly]

Come closer.

[hands tapping]

Rachel...

[ticking intensifies]

[baby crying]

[Barbara]: I've assigned

everyone their chores

for after school.

Laundry? Not again!

Becky, is that a complaint?

[Becky]: Of course not,

Mother Barbara. That'd be a sin.

Not eating? Are you sick?

No, Mother.

There's nothing wrong with

her

that going outside

won't fix.

[scoffs]

Now, go. Go to school.

Oh.

[Becky]: Was your punishment

worse than mine, or the same?

I don't know.

I didn't cry.

You never cry.

I know. It's my best quality.

What's wrong, sister?

Oh, I had a bad nightmare

last night.

Was it scary?

Yes.

What if God was mad at me?

What if the nightmare was

to punish me?

For playing our gentile game?

We apologized, and I don't

think he holds grudges.

So, maybe if I'm really good,

God won't give me

nightmares again.

Exactly.

[Barbara]: Girls! Girls.

[running footsteps approach]

You have to go to the

principal's office before class.

Yes, Mother.

All right, go on.

[knock on door]

We weren't late.

Oh, you're not being

punished. Have a seat.

I have a present for you.

Really?

[Warren]: Yes.

For both of us?

Mm-hmm.

Rachel, are you excited?

Sandals!

[singing]: I knew when I saw

them,

that my girls had to have them.

I've just been waiting

for the perfect time.

[chuckles]

I hope you like them.

It's not like Father

to give us gifts.

If he's giving them to us,

it must be okay.

I just want to do what's

right for God's forgiveness.

Rachel, smile.

It pleases me

and God when you smile.

See? God forgives you.

We got presents.

No more nightmares.

[Warren]: Off to class.

[footsteps shuffle then stop]

I see you've given the girls

pretty, new sandals.

What of it?

Oh, nothing. I'm surprised.

You've never done anything like

that. It's generous.

You're surprised I got my own

girls a gift?

You know, you should not

question the kindness

I have for my own children.

I'm sorry.

I-I didn't mean to do that.

Tell Rachel to come

to my office after dinner.

[unsettling music]

[clock ticking rhythmically]

[breathing deeply]

[knock on frame]

You're late.

Close the door.

[door shuts]

I need help cleaning

my office.

Cleaning?

Uh-huh.

You're moving very fast.

I just want

to get to bed early.

Well, you do look tired.

[slaps knee]

Come sit.

What is the only emotion

women are allowed to have?

Sweetness.

That's right.

You must keep sweet and obey.

[slaps knee]

Sit.

[trembles]

Come here now.

Rachel.

[door opens]

Don't you ever interrupt me

in my office!

Rachel!

Rachel...

...have you been getting

enough sleep?

Yes, Mother.

Is something on your mind?

No. Just praying extra hard.

[sighs]

Well, we need our rest

to best serve God.

[hesitates]

[exhales happily]

Music helps me connect to God.

Perhaps it will

help you, too.

[strums violin]

I don't know how to play.

Well, I can teach you.

Music heals the soul.

You sure you're okay?

She's fine.

All right, let's go fishing

today, huh?

[clapping loudly]

The ladies will pack a picnic,

we'll make a day out of it.

Let's go! Let's go!

All right,

go get your sandals on!

Oh no, Rachel's not coming.

Rachel, bring your new sandals

to me.

And Becky, you can

bring me yours as well.

Why, Father? I've been good.

Well, Rachel's bad behaviour

has ruined your fun, too.

Now, go! Go get 'em.

What did Rachel do?

She knows.

Go on, put 'em inside.

[sandals thump in garbage can]

[slams down garbage can]

[concerned inhale and exhale]

[Rachel]: God, I'm sorry.

Please, make it stop.

I'll do anything you ask.

I'll be extra sweet

and hardworking.

I'll serve you every day.

Please, help me.

[door creaks open]

[Warren]: Why are you outta

bed?

Oh, I just wanted

to talk to God.

[Warren]: Oh. No, no, you...

you can stay.

Don't let me interrupt you.

I know the last few days

have been very hard on you.

You know, I want you to join

family outings.

I want us to get along.

And I...

I want us to do nice things

for each other, right?

Don't you?

[Warren]: Yea.

But you see,

that can't happen

if you run away

when I'm instructing you

on how to be a good wife.

Instructing me?

Yeah,

instructing you.

And those are very important

lessons, Rachel.

[Rachel]: Oh.

Yeah.

Why don't you come with me?

There is so much more I can

show you.

Father, no! Please!

Shh, shh, shh. You've got to

be very quiet.

So, be quiet, all right?

Please don't make me.

[sobs]

Is this any way to treat me?

Your loving Father, huh?

Oh.

[clicks tongue]

God is very angry with you.

Come with me.

[ticking clock speeds up

then stops]

[Rachel]: Mother?

Oh, Rachel.

Are you okay?

[sighs]

You can tell me.

[Rachel]: I can't.

Yes, you can.

Father...

What about Father?

He's been doing

bad things to me.

And making me do

bad things to him.

[shaky inhale]

No, no, no, that's...

no, that, that's not right.

I'm gonna put a stop

to this. Right now.

[knock at door]

Mother?

Go back to your room.

What happened?

[inhales sternly]

Dear God, I understand now.

I must repent and stay devoted

until you see fit

to end these punishments.

Only my faith will save me.

[Warren]: Rachel...

[exhales nervously]

Must you always be defiant?

[breathes shakily]

Kneel.

[inhales sternly]

[gasps]

You will obey.

Hmm. Good.

[violin singing]

[clock ticking]

Good girl.

[chuckles cunningly]

[moans]

Be quiet. Be very, very quiet.

[family clapping]

[slow, deliberate clap]

I liked that very much.

Thank you. You taught me well.

You far surpass my own talent.

You were right.

About what?

Music brings me much comfort.

It offers hope, and heals.

I'm very grateful for it.

Great. Well,

I have a surprise for you.

There's a very special dinner

at the school tonight and I will

be taking all of my ladies.

Mother Alma here will stay

back and manage the children.

It's an honour.

Good. Well, we should

get going.

Let's head out.

Rachel, can I have

a moment, please?

You failed my test.

[ominous music]

When I asked you

to kneel in my office.

There will be consequences.

You forced me to kneel

and now I'm in trouble

for doing it?

Do not question God.

Yes, Father.

Hmm?

One more thing, you all be

good to Mother Alma, here.

All right.

[Alma]: We start prayer at 6

p.m.

Bed right after.

You all finish your chores.

Go!

[giggles]

[Rachel]: I love this time of

day.

God takes his paintbrush

to the sky.

Do you think this

is what heaven is like?

I used to think so but...

this can't be heaven.

Why,

because Mother Alma's here?

[chuckles softly]

I kinda feel bad for her.

She gets left behind a lot.

It must be hard.

[Alma]: Rachel! Becky! Where

are you?

You still feel bad for her?

Let's stay out

a little longer.

Do you ever pretend that

you live someplace else?

No.

Imagine the sunset over water.

It's not a fancy place,

but our grandmother who left the

church, she lives nearby,

in Centennial.

I heard that she actually

offered to help our mothers

if they ever

wanted to leave the church.

I wouldn't mind visiting

her one day.

No. No, no, no, that, that,

that's wrong.

No matter what happens,

we-we can never leave

the church.

Our suffering is

for the greater good.

We'll be blessed

in the afterlife.

I know. I didn't say

I wanted to leave forever,

just... just a visit.

I'm going to call your father!

If God doesn't spite us

for talking about this,

Mother Alma will.

[laughs]

Coming!

[Rachel]: Let's go.

[Becky]: Go.

[girls laughing]

You will go straight

to bed now for disrespect.

We're very sorry, Mother Alma.

No. You are not.

You think you're better

than all of us.

That's not true.

All those secret little

visits with your father.

Next time he asks you to do

something alone,

why don't you ask him to take

one of your sisters instead?

No. They can't. Ever.

You are so selfish

and that is a sin.

Both of you are.

You're just mad because

father left you alone, again.

[screams]

I hate you!

We all hate you!

Leave us alone.

Are you okay?

It was worth the slap just

to see you stand up to her.

Who are you?

[slow footsteps approach]

You've had a bad report.

Each of you will

now be disciplined.

The little ones had nothing

to do with this.

If you truly want

to protect them,

don't behave badly.

Becky, you'll be first.

[yelps]

[stick whips harshly]

[exhales]

[winces]

Ooh, playing tough, girl?

Okay.

[stick smacks loudly]

[yelps]

Enough!

You back up, little girl.

What about me, huh?

I'm ready for my punishment.

[panting]

Well, you...

you're too old for spanking.

[stick clatters]

[steadying breath]

[paper crinkles]

[pen thwaps on desk]

[door opens]

[door shuts]

[Rachel]: I hate when you touch

me and make me touch you.

I want to feel normal

and safe again.

My life is not my own.

All of this feels wrong.

I hate it.

I know you know

what I'm talking about.

I cannot live this way anymore.

[exhales sharply]

[paper rips]

[panting]

No, no, no, no, stay. Stay.

Rachel, please forgive me.

I'm begging you.

You've got to forgive me.

S-s-stop. Get up!

No. No, no, no, no. Stop.

No, God.

God's not going to forgive me.

All right, you're frightened

and you're ashamed

and now we both must face what

we've done in God's eyes.

Both of us?

Yeah, both of us.

We both must repent.

God knows

everything in our hearts.

Okay? He sees everything.

You gotta forgive me, please.

Please.

Will you forgive me, please?

Please?

[gasping]

No, forgive me.

You'll forgive me.

[clocking ticking rhythmically]

Please, forgive me

so God can hear you.

I... I forgive you.

I forgive you.

I forgive you!

[ticking stops]

[panting]

You're a good, clean girl.

We'll keep all of this

just between you and I.

You understand?

[chuckles]

Good.

[door slams shut]

[exhales deeply]

[Rachel]:

It's over.

[sobs happily]

Thank you.

[Becky]: You're crooked

again.

Just follow the line.

[Rachel]: I'm trying.

[giggles]

It's just a straight line.

Look, like this. See?

Right along.

How did you do that?

It's so straight.

It's not supposed

to be complicated.

[girls laughing]

[Rachel]: Okay, I'll try.

Ladies.

[hands clap sharply]

It is time to end one chapter

and begin another.

You can't live

in the past anymore.

Isn't that right, Rachel?

The Prophet has decided

you're both to be married.

What?

[Warren]: Yes.

No. No, I'm not ready

to be married yet, Father.

We're only 18.

Well, the Prophet chooses

who, and when, you marry.

Are you so quick

to abandon his teachings?

No. No. I-I'm not, Father.

I...

We just ask

for a little more time.

[Becky]: Please, can you talk

to Grandfather?

[exhales]

What if I tell him I choose

to keep you at home

for another...

two years?

Yes, thank you.

Come to my office tomorrow.

We'll discuss it further.

[Becky]: Oh, that was close.

Why aren't you more excited?

I don't trust Father.

Getting two more years

of freedom is a blessing.

Yeah, right.

Ladies, I have a surprise

for you.

I think you know Richard

and David Allred.

Grandfather's bodyguards.

What are they doing here?

Well, Becky, you are

to be married to David.

Rachel, you will marry Richard.

Tomorrow.

[chuckles]

But you said we could wait.

You promised.

[clock ticking rhythmically]

[Warren]: Becky.

Rachel, are you feeling

all right?

Are you sick with happiness?

Sit with your husband.

It's okay if you

don't want to.

Thank you.

[Warren]: No.

No.

You will sit.

You're lucky

to receive these men.

Chosen for their

absolute loyalty.

They will report everything

to me.

It'll be like we're still

together under one roof.

Well, why don't you head out

to the hallway

and get acquainted?

Alone?

Yes, Becky.

Wives are the property

of their husbands.

You will belong

to these men for eternity.

[ominous music plays]

So, go.

Rachel, come here.

Ask Richard

for a baby tomorrow night.

He's a stranger to me.

Promise me

you will ask him

for a baby.

Promise me.

Yes, Father.

Good girl.

Well, I would marry you

myself if I could,

but this is

the next best thing.

[truck rumbling]

[neighs]

Welcome home.

Hello, Rachel. I'm Trish.

And I'm Molly.

This must be a big change

for you,

given the mansion you used

to live in.

Oh, uh, I wouldn't

call it a mansion.

I would.

Your grandfather

is the Prophet.

I'm happy to be here.

This is my bedroom.

I'm sorry, I don't have

an extra room for you.

When my ladies are with me,

you'll have to sleep

on the couch down the hall.

I did manage to clean out

this drawer for you.

Thank you.

Your father wanted me to call

him tonight to check in on you.

Hmm, Father told me to ask

you for a baby tonight.

I see.

Is that what you want?

Father wouldn't be very happy

if I disappointed you.

[chuckles softly]

You're not.

How about we wait

and you ask me for a baby

when you're really ready?

[relieved exhale]

Is that okay?

You can sleep on top

of the covers tonight

if that makes

you feel better.

Thank you.

[baby wailing]

I can make the eggs.

Your help isn't needed.

[Rachel]: Um,

okay.

Please don't touch

Rich's clothes. Ever.

Do you understand?

Yes.

Is there anything I could do

that could be helpful?

You could get out

from underfoot.

No one wants

or needs you here.

[Rachel]: Everyone hates me.

They won't let me

touch anything.

I don't know what to do.

It's not easy being

a plural wife.

No, it's... very hard.

To reach the highest degree

of glory in heaven,

each man must have

at least three wives.

The instruction ended there.

No one really knows

how to live it.

I thought that leaving this

house would be a blessing,

a fresh start.

It still can be.

How?

I live in a house with a

complete stranger

who's in love

with two other women.

How am I supposed

to build

a meaningful relationship

with him?

Just behave in a loving way

toward Rich.

That can be

your job right now.

Eventually,

real love will grow.

And what about

the other wives?

I wish I had advice.

I'm still not sure how to

manage it after all these years.

Rachel, can you grab me

the rake?

I think it's in the shed.

Oh!

[sniffs deeply]

Thank you.

I wanted to do

something nice.

It's our three-month

anniversary.

You've survived three whole

months with me?

I should be

buying you flowers.

You're very special.

I bet you say that

to all the ladies.

No, I could never get away

with that.

You women tell each

other everything.

Not me. I...

I don't think they

like me very much.

They're still

getting to know you.

Well, until then, I'll be

here in my garden kingdom.

Oh, can I come visit?

No boys allowed.

[laughing]

[screams]

What's that face about?

Nothing.

It's definitely something.

[exhales]

I think I'm ready

to be with Rich.

You haven't been with him yet?

[sighs]

I've been trying

to work through some fears.

Trying to see the,

the good in front of me,

instead of the pain

of the past.

What pain?

Just...

just silly fears, really.

Have you been with David?

Yes.

[exclaims]

A lot.

[giggling]

Was it... strange?

No. No, David is...

he's a blessing in every way.

[giggles]

Now who's making a face?

You're doing it.

Stop, no I'm not.

[Rachel]: Yes, you are.

[Rich]: I have guard duty

tonight.

I'll miss you.

You should come

with me one night.

Maybe I will.

Until then...

[exhales happily]

Rich,

I'd like to try

for a baby.

[exhales sternly]

[Rich]: Rachel, do you know

how babies are made?

[Rachel]: Yes.

How? You were forbidden

from knowing before marriage.

I... I just do.

Tell me.

How do you know what

a man and a woman do together?

My father taught me.

You see me differently now.

[crying]

No. No, that's not true.

I love you, Rachel.

Nothing could change that.

[exhales deeply]

Thank you.

I've been waiting

for my whole life

for someone who understands.

I'm on your side.

You're my wife.

I always knew that one day

I would have to talk

to Rachel's husband.

I confess,

I confess that in teaching

Rachel, I got too close to her.

I ask for your forgiveness.

Good.

Heavenly Father

and our Prophet,

they understand the true

purpose of my lessons.

They do.

You bringing this to me,

and God,

shows your faithfulness

and your righteous

understanding.

Isn't that right, Richard?

Yes. Of course.

Thank you for your time.

Well, thank you.

I will give you a moment.

From one person

of silence to another.

Let's not speak

of this further.

It will be too painful

for me.

Let's go home.

I can't wait to start

a family with you.

[Rachel]: I know that we've

only been gone

for 20 minutes but--

[Rich]: You miss the little

ones?

Yes, all three of them.

Martha, Rulon, Barbie,

we're home!

[baby wailing]

I'm sure it was just

a misunderstanding.

[Rachel]: Trish and Molly left

our children in a closet!

They put them downstairs

to nap and left them there.

I can't get in the middle.

They already think

that I favour you.

It's one thing for them

to hate me,

but to take it out

on our children?

They're just a

little jealous.

Please,

try to remain patient.

I have been patient

for five years.

I've never complained

about anything.

Sleeping on a

couch in the hallway,

or a million other things.

They're mean

and they're hateful.

Rachel, please.

Say something.

If not for me,

for your children.

[phone rings]

David?

I'll let her know.

What?

The Prophet has died.

[Becky]: I can't believe

Grandfather is really gone.

Who will be

the Prophet now?

I don't know.

Our Father Rulon,

our beloved Prophet,

he came to me in spirit.

And today,

I saw his face again,

in my brother's face,

Warren Jeffs.

As you know, Rulon consulted

with Warren on all church

matters before his death.

God, my father, have chosen

brother Warren

to be his rightful successor.

[congregation murmurs]

God is good.

After his stroke,

praying on Father's

inevitable passing,

I was frightened.

What would happen

to us in his absence?

Thankfully, the Lord

spoke to me.

Directly.

He made me an apostle and

anointed me his new messenger.

Testimony of my brother

confirms it.

Please pray for me

and father's wives.

They are not to be touched.

Not to be married again.

They will forever be widowed.

Forever my father's

devoted wives.

These are indeed hard

times, I know.

But it is important

to remember,

my father is no longer sick.

He rejoices

in the kingdom of heaven,

and we will meet him again

if we stay devout.

[moaning]

[knife slams on counter]

Mother?

Why are you making such

a bountiful meal?

Your father, our Prophet,

has decided to marry some

of your grandfather's wives.

But he said that they

would never marry again.

Well, he must have

changed his mind.

I don't understand,

he's marrying his own mothers?

Not all,

just his most devoted.

I don't question

his decisions.

I live to serve the Prophet.

Mother, you should rest.

Making a wedding feast

is too much for you.

I'm happy when I'm working.

You look well.

We don't get to spend much

with each other anymore, do we?

I came here to talk to you

about Mother.

I think she might be sick.

Yes, I was going

to call on you.

So, she is sick?

They say it's breast cancer.

Well, when, when will

she begin treatment?

Right away.

It's stage IV but--

[huffs]

Is it true?

[Barbara]: I'm afraid so.

[sobs]

When...

when did you see a doctor?

I found the first lump

a few years ago.

Your father assured me

it was fine.

I just needed to pray.

You waited years

to see a doctor?

[Barbara]: Rachel...

Father sentenced you to death.

It is a sin to speak

ill of the Prophet.

He did what God

instructed him to do.

Do not fret, okay?

I know I will survive.

I have two young children.

God would never take me

from them,

or from you. Shh.

You must turn

your anger into faith.

I'll try.

You can each take one toy

with you when you go.

[Rachel]: What's going on?

[Warren]: Oh.

What's happening?

God came to me last night.

Told me I should take my family

to the Land of Refuge in Texas.

Unfortunately, not all my wives

are worthy enough

to step foot on that land yet.

Are you taking my children?

No. I'm taking my children.

And it is a great honour

for them.

Who will take care of them?

My childless wives

will accompany the children.

But not their birth mother?

Their birth mother is not

worthy enough yet.

They must learn repentance

and fealty.

Who will decide whether

or not they are worthy?

God. And I speak for God.

How dare you question me, girl?

I am sick.

If you send them away,

I may never see my babies again.

Please! Please.

Then I suggest you endeavour

to make yourself worthy

so you can join them again

one day.

Please. Please, don't do this

to Mother. Please, Father!

[Warren]: It is God's will.

Boys.

No, don't worry, we're going

to be together soon, okay?

Okay, don't cry, my babies.

Don't cry! It's okay.

[Barbara sobs]

No!

[Rachel]: It's okay, Mother.

[Barbara]: No!

[Rachel]: Everything will be

okay.

No! No! No!

[Rachel]: Dear Heavenly

Father,

I pray for your understanding

once more.

It's been six months since

my mother lost her children

and her health continues

to decline.

Please speak

to Father's heart

so that she can join the

Land of Refuge

in Texas

before it's too late.

The church remains loyal to

my father

and he says Mother

will be healed,

that you have told him such.

I am scared and lonely.

Please, tell me

that you're here.

Please, just give me a sign.

[baby crying]

[exhales happily]

I-I'm coming. I'm coming.

[Rachel]: Molly has

the children downstairs.

I-I can't stay how long

I'll stay.

The Prophet has decided that

your mother

is finally worthy enough to go

to the Land of Refuge in Texas.

Oh.

Oh, that's wonderful news.

I'll travel with her.

That won't be possible.

Oh, Father will allow it.

I've already asked.

The Land of Refuge is being

called Yearning for Zion.

Basically, heaven on earth.

Neither you nor Becky

is worthy enough to go.

Have we done something

to displease Father?

What can we

do to become worthy?

You're worthy

of every good thing.

You've done nothing wrong.

The Prophet does

right always.

We must stand

by his decision.

I spoke against no one.

My wife is in pain.

I will comfort her.

Or is that

against the rules, too?

[huffs]

[Rachel]: Mother being allowed

to go is...

is a blessing.

Have to remember that God

answers our prayers.

[David]: Your wife is in

pain, brother.

Is she not worthy

of your comfort?

I don't need advice from you

on how to take care

of my family.

And what does that mean?

There's a reason

you were chosen

to purchase the land

for our refuge,

but only I am worthy enough

to step foot on the land itself.

Yes, because Warren knew I

wouldn't leave Becky

and the children alone

that long.

I won't fight with you,

brother.

The Prophet will tell the rest

tonight at the meeting house.

He's returned to deliver

an important message.

I've gathered you all here

today to relay a great secret.

The Lord has spoken to me.

Gentiles and apostates want to

k*ll us.

Soon there will be a great

martyrdom in Short Creek.

Your only chance for survival

is to move to

a new Land of Refuge.

I didn't realize there was

more than one Land of Refuge.

If you need further proof

that outsiders

are coming to attack

our way of life,

there is now a warrant out

for my arrest.

[crowd murmurs]

I'm on the FBI's

Most Wanted list.

[chuckles]

What do you think he's done?

[Warren]: They do not

understand our lifestyle,

nor the ages

that we marry our wives.

So, I must protect my people.

The most worthy of

you will move to Texas.

The other worthy

members will move

to a Land of Refuge

in South Dakota.

[Warren]:

You must keep

everything

about these lands secret

or you'll be destroyed by God.

If you are selected for the

honour of living in the refuge,

you must listen to trainings,

morning to night,

for two weeks.

There are many new rules

to learn.

Women and children will

kneel down in prayer circles,

every hour, on the hour,

from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Clothing will only be made

by our own hands.

We will buy nothing

from gentiles.

No more braids hanging down

your backs.

God wants it up on your heads,

and hidden.

It has come to my attention

that children sometimes look

at cartoons

or read gentile books.

No longer. Movies, television,

music, forbidden here.

All children's toys will be

burned.

Our people are meant to work

and praise God,

not to play.

Labourers will build each

house in two weeks.

Each house will have

14 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms.

If you fail to meet

these building deadlines,

you'll be sent away

and your family will be given

to other more worthy men.

These mighty revelations

are a gift from God.

Do you understand?

[creepy exhale]

Good.

[sombre music plays]

[Rich]: Rachel?

It's your mother.

We must go to Texas. Now.

[sobbing]

Mama?

It's me, Mama.

[Rachel]: It's your Rachel.

I, I'm pregnant again, Mama.

This, this baby will need you.

I need you.

Please.

Please, just open your eyes.

Please just say something.

Don't leave me.

My wife, Barbara Jeffs,

she was not a perfect person.

She was jealous,

and that is a grievous sin.

Take heed.

The Lord gave her cancer

to punish her.

[exhales sharply]

Her illness has been

very difficult for me.

But there is good news.

The pain that she dealt with

in her final days humbled her.

And with my help, the Lord

accepted her into heaven.

Atoning for her sins and for

your sins is terrible work.

I wonder if I'll even survive.

But God is good.

God is good,

and he has seen my suffering,

and he has offered me a

revelation on how I may survive.

And the Lord told me,

he said,

"Multiple women may join

me in my bed at night

to offer me heavenly comfort."

[sniffs]

[trembles]

God, please keep those poor

girls safe and watch over them.

My mother was good,

and faithful.

Why did Father lie

about her so easily?

And if he's able to lie about

her so easily

then what other lies

is he telling?

I fear that he's not

the true prophet,

and instead...

is the devil in disguise.

[gasps in pain]

[Rachel]: No.

Can we chat later?

Rich...

I lost the baby.

I don't want the other ladies

to see me talking to you.

You know how jealous they get.

I'm just as much

a wife as they are.

I know but they'll take this

miscarriage the wrong way.

Their feelings are not right.

[Rich]: Rachel.

Their mistreatment

of my children.

They leave them downstairs

in the basement,

they give them extra chores,

they allow the other children

to bully them.

You must show love

to my wives.

The same love they show me?

Your father's been in touch.

He wants everyone

to write letters

confessing all

of their recent sins.

Maybe you should ask him

for guidance.

[Elijah]: Our Prophet

has bravely left

his new house of hiding

to deliver an important

announcement today.

You have missed

a crucial deadline.

The house that was supposed

to be finished

was not built on time.

God has given me a list

of names.

If your name is

in this list,

it is your fault the

building deadline was missed.

Ye shall be cast out

and your families given

to other more...

worthy men.

Benjamin, Paul, Edward,

Thomas, Gerald, Frank.

And David.

No!

You will not give my wife

to another man.

Becky come with me.

He is evil.

[Becky]: No. No!

I'll contact the boys

when I get settled.

I forbid you to contact--

I don't care!

I'll see my boys!

I have legal rights.

You're not the only that'll

fight for their souls.

[David]: Get off me!

Father, Becky suffers greatly.

I have received your letter.

My letter?

Your confession letter.

About your sister wives'

behaviour towards you

and your children.

Oh, please don't punish

them too harshly.

Their punishment will

be equal to your own.

Why am I being punished?

For your own words.

You have sinned.

You are filled with so much

anger and resentment to me.

I'm sorry,

I won't be that way anymore.

It's too late.

I have decided that you,

your sister wives,

and all of your children will

be sent

to a house of hiding

in Las Vegas.

You will speak to no one.

You will stay inside

at all times.

And you will pray

for forgiveness.

For how long?

You will stay until I feel

you are worthy to return home.

Wh-what are we supposed to do

inside a house

with nine children all day?

I suggest you turn to God

for that question.

It's not my burden.

It's yours. Let's go.

[Molly]: I miss Rich.

This is all your fault.

None of that matters anymore.

We have to find a way to

survive with these children.

[Molly]: We were told to

pray.

And we will.

But the children are little.

They don't understand.

We can't get away

with breaking the rules.

Uncle Elijah says

the neighbours are watching

and will report to him.

Then we'll have to do so

carefully and creatively.

Toys are banned but we can

allow the children

to access other things

for imaginary play.

Anything, towels, clothing,

dishes.

Whatever they want.

[pleasant music]

[knock at door]

[exhales]

[Rachel]: Uncle Elijah.

We were just putting

the children down for a nap.

Would you like some food,

or perhaps some water?

No. This isn't a social visit.

The Prophet has been arrested.

What for?

Facilitating

underage marriage.

Texas is also preparing a case

for sexual as*ault of a minor.

This unlawful persecution is

further proof

that your father

is the chosen one.

You must all pray for him.

Now!

But Uncle Elijah, with

Father's arrest,

how long will we stay

in the house of hiding?

How will he get word to us?

I cannot say.

I suggest you not selfishly

focus on yourselves

at this moment.

Pray for our Prophet.

[knife swishes through apple]

I can't believe you're writing

your father another letter.

We have to do something.

The children

cannot live like this.

[knock at door]

[gasps]

Aren't you happy

to see me, ladies?

Yes, of course.

[exclaims happily]

Will you be staying

for dinner?

Even better than that.

I have news from the Prophet.

Your punishment is over.

[women gasps]

I can bring you all

home to South Dakota.

[relieved exclaims]

I was beginning to think that

he had forgotten about us.

He got your letters on how

much you wish

to have more children,

to honour him and exalt him.

And...

He wanted me to introduce

my new wife, Gloria.

How old are you?

Sixteen.

Welcome to the family.

[Elijah]: The Prophet has sent

word.

More deadlines have been missed

and there will be consequences.

You are all sinners in need

of the following corrections.

You must drink water

every 30 minutes.

You may not cook

with any spices.

No onions, garlic,

salt, or pepper.

And parents are now forbidden

from hugging their children.

This doesn't make any sense.

Father isn't well.

It has also come to our

attention

that the apostate David

has been in contact with

his former wife, Becky.

He has a lawyer

and is pursuing visitation.

Therefore, God has decided

to give Becky's children

to another,

more worthy family in Texas.

And Becky will be kept in a

house of hiding

in Short Creek

to atone for her sins.

Uncle Elijah, she hasn't

done anything wrong.

Becky, you must have sinned

if God is telling

his Prophet so.

Be careful, Rachel,

or a similar fate

may befall you.

[exhales nervously]

We'll get through this.

I'll talk to Father.

You're strong, Becky.

You never let Father break you.

[sobs]

Uncle Elijah.

Hi, um,

we weren't expecting you.

Do you stay for dinner?

Have a seat.

Warren knows that the two of

you had sexual relations

while Rachel was pregnant.

He knows this because

you struggle to conceive.

We do not struggle.

Baby Nathaniel

is not even a year old.

You miscarried. He has proof.

We did miscarry.

It was awful.

But not because Rich

and I had relations

while I was pregnant.

God told

your father otherwise.

[Elijah]: He knows you are

lying.

You will be moved to a

house of hiding in Short Creek

to atone for your deception.

Alone.

What do you mean?

Rich broke the rules by

having relations

with you while pregnant.

He will be sent to an

unknown location.

He will not see you

or speak to his family

until he can prove

his dedication

to the Lord and our Prophet.

No! No!

Rich loves Father.

He loves his faith.

He's devout.

He is not to touch you,

or any of his wives or children,

until the Prophet says so.

Father is under stress

in jail.

He sees betrayals where

there are none.

This is unfair.

Rachel, you mustn't argue.

If the Prophet sees fit to give

us this correction,

we must obey

and pray that we are worthy

to be together again soon.

Pack only the bare minimum.

And you,

get yourself and your children

ready by morning.

What are we going to do?

Nothing.

We cannot question

the Prophet's judgment.

Even now, you're still

loyal to him?

What about our children?

I've said goodbye to them.

[exhales]

No, no, we're not

supposed to touch.

[somber music playing]

[suitcases thump down]

Mama.

[door slams]

The children will be with

your sister wives

in Warren's compound.

[gasping]

Barbie! Just a second,

just a second.

My children will stay with me.

My baby is still nursing.

I do the Prophet's bidding,

Rachel. Not yours.

Perhaps this is why

you're being punished.

Oh no! Please!

Pray on it.

My babies! No! No! No!

No! My babies!

My babies!

[shrieking]

Good girl.

[creepy chuckle]

[gasps]

Hmm?

[unsettling music playing]

[clock ticking loudly]

[exhales sharply]

No! Please, God!

Can you hear me? Please!

Are my children

suffering too?

What have they done to

deserve this punishment?

Will my baby know me?

[sobs]

Please. Please,

just tell me what to do.

Just, just tell me

what I need to do now.

Please.

[sighs]

[determined music]

Barbie?

Oh, Barbie! Barbie,

come here! Come on.

Mother?

Come, Barbie. Now.

Cover your eyes.

Ignore the sinner.

[grunts]

Barbie! Come out!

Come see me, Barbie!

[door rattling]

Let me in!

[steadying inhale]

Mom.

[blinds clatter]

[Rachel]: Where's my baby?

Give me back my children now.

You can't have them.

These are Rich's children.

After everything

we've been through,

I would never keep

your children from you.

I've already called Elijah.

You don't have much time.

[sighs]

Oh, come here, my babies!

I missed you so much.

Oh, I love you.

[sniffles]

I love you so much.

[tender music playing]

They say you're going

to hell. Is that true?

No. No, don't listen to them.

We're scared.

I try to help the younger kids,

but they won't let me.

No, you, you're doing

everything right.

You're trying your best.

I must be very bad

to be punished this way.

No. No, I don't want you

to think that, okay?

Isn't that what you think?

[Elijah]: Rachel!

You're coming with me.

Look, I'll leave quietly.

Not for you, for my babies.

[Rachel]: Give me a hug, okay?

Mommy's gonna be back soon,

I promise.

Okay, let's go.

[crying]

I have a message

for my father.

Tell him I'm done.

I know exactly who he is

and I'm going to tell everyone.

I want my kids back... now!

[prison buzzer honks]

-

[Elijah]:

This cannot

stand.

You pushed her too far.

This is your fault. I do not

want her lured into weakness.

I need to keep her under control

at all costs.

[tender music playing]

[Children]: Mommy, mommy!

Oh, my babies!

You should thank the Prophet

for this blessing.

You don't deserve it.

I'm glad that he finally

sees what I'm capable of.

I'll be increasing

security patrols.

See that you stay

inside, Rachel,

or there will be consequences.

[knocking at door]

[knocking aggressively]

[exclaims happily]

[Rachel]: Becky!

Come in, come in.

How did you find me here?

[Becky]: Molly delivered my

food

and she let it slip

that you were back

in Short Creek too, so I

started sneaking out at night

and going door to door.

I knew I'd find you eventually.

What if security saw you?

I hid from them.

But even if they caught me,

what can they do that's worse

than taking my children away?

I must have sinned, Rachel.

That's why all of

this is happening.

[sobs]

And I can no longer bear

this shame.

What? What shame?

Father... hurt me.

When I was young.

And it never goes away.

Father hurt me, too.

The abuse went on

for eight years.

I thought I was

the only one.

So did I.

But you're not.

You're not alone.

It haunts me at night

and I just want it to stop.

I don't know what

to do without my children.

Father's words are

not the words of God.

Do not think

of them one more second.

You must find your children.

You can go to David.

He said that he'll help.

He'll use the law.

But, but what if I leave

and God punishes me more

than he already has?

I don't think God punishes us,

Father does,

and he always has.

If the choice is to stay here

and suffer or leave and survive,

then you must go!

Will you come with me?

Rich.

[sighs]

I have to have a chance

to talk to him.

I pray that he makes

his way back to us.

Oh, you still have faith.

After all of this.

I do.

Father is not God.

We have to find a way

to break free.

[truck rumbles past]

Father!

What are you doing?

Get inside right now.

Mother, it's Father!

What?

Rich?

Father!

Rich! Rich, your children

want to see you.

Please?

Rich? Rich!

These are your children!

Why are you ignoring us?

I love you!

I love you

with all my heart! Please!

[trembling exhale]

[loud banging]

[Rachel]: You'll scare

the children.

Your sister is gone!

I haven't seen her.

[Elijah]: You lie.

If she is gone,

then you will never find her,

so you should stop looking.

Since you cannot listen

and obey,

you will move in with me

and my wives.

[Elijah]: You will never escape

my walls.

Never have visitors again.

We will decide when

and if you see your children.

I...

If moving in with you is

truly Father's will,

then I will need at least

until morning to pack my stuff.

You think you can

dictate terms to me?

I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Uncle.

I...

I need this correction.

I need your strength

and your wisdom.

But the children have just

been returned to me.

Please. Please, Uncle, please.

Stop.

You may have an hour.

Oh.

[Elijah]: See that you're

ready by nightfall.

Thank you. Thank you, Uncle.

Increase patrols

in case

the devil changes her mind.

[gasps]

[raps on window]

Hello?

Hello? Oh!

Hello? Hello, please,

please let me use

your emergency phone.

Please, they're gonna take away

my children. Please! Please!

[crying]

[door opens]

Oh!

Thank you!

[panting]

I need you.

[baby moaning]

Where are we going?

We're going on a little trip.

Okay, everyone just try and

keep quiet.

Everything's going

to be okay.

[car approaching]

Okay, come on.

[baby crying]

[Rachel]: Okay everybody.

Come on, come on, get in,

everybody. Come on quick.

[Rachel]: Quick,

put on your seatbelts.

Get inside the car.

I'll distract Elijah so they

don't follow you out.

Take them, please!

You're scared, okay.

I was scared too.

Just get in the car.

You can do this.

[door slams]

Go!

[Elijah]: Rachel!

[tense music playing]

[panting]

[Elijah]: Rachel!

[pounding on door]

Rachel, open this door!

Open this door!

I know you have a phone.

Get out here!

[banging continues]

Your father owns this town.

You got nowhere to run,

nowhere to hide.

God will smite you!

Please, please make sure me

and my children are safe.

Rachel!

[phone ringing]

We're not leaving

without you.

I'm circling back around

to the main gate.

Be there in one minute.

[panting]

[plate shatters]

[Elijah]: She went out

the other side.

[Elijah]: Come here!

Rachel!

[gravel crunches under foot]

I can hear you, Rachel.

Where are you gonna go?

[brakes squeal]

Let's go!

[Becky]: Come on, get in.

[Elijah]: Rachel! Stop!

[car speeds away]

Stop! Rachel!

[music turns calm]

[baby crying]

[Grandma]: Oh. Come in, come

in, Becky.

And Rachel,

my Barbara's Rachel.

You know me?

Of course I know you,

you're my granddaughter.

Your mother sent pictures.

Oh, I prayed

that you would find me.

No, I will not lose my family

one by one.

I am the Prophet.

I am God's messenger.

They will obey.

[phone smashing loudly]

[Rachel]: Wow!

Oh, beautiful!

So beautiful.

[soft music]

This was my dream.

I remember.

It was like a lifetime ago.

It kind of was.

When I was being abused,

it felt like it would never end.

'Til it did,

physically anyway.

I thought that marrying Rich

would give me some freedom

but it didn't.

It gave you five beautiful

children, though.

[giggles]

Come on!

[women giggling]

Oh, it's cold!

[relieved exhale]

[Becky]: Oh, the water feels

nice.

Feels like freedom.

Come on, everybody!

Okay, who's ready

for some tag?

[Rachel]: Okay, let's play

beach ball.

[Becky]: Tag. I'll be it

first.

Ready?

Hello. How are you?

[all laughing

and chatting happily]