Watch Holy Hell

Holy Hell is a riveting documentary film from 2016 directed by Will Allen, who also appears in the film along with other former members of a Buddhist cult called Buddhafield led by the enigmatic Michel Rostand, who went by the name of Andreas. The movie takes a deep dive into the inner workings of the cult from the inside, covering the period from the 1980s to 2007, during which Allen was a devoted member.

The film opens with a series of interviews with former members of the Buddhafield cult recounting their experiences and the impact the group had on their lives. They speak of being drawn to the community by their shared love of meditation and spirituality, only to find themselves in a world that was far removed from what they expected. From the outset, the film presents the story of the cult through the lens of the people who lived it.

What follows is a mesmerizing journey into the cult's inner workings, including footage of their bizarre rituals and practices. The film also delves into the toxic relationship between the cult leader Andreas and his followers, specifically the way in which he exploited their trust and adoration for his own personal gain. The chilling revelations that unfold lead to the understanding that the cult wasn't just a benign gathering of like-minded people, but a dangerous group that thrived on power and control.

Throughout the film, Allen emerges as the documentary's central figure and guide. His story is one of personal transformation, from a lost young man seeking purpose and connection to a disillusioned former member who ultimately exposes the cult's dark secrets. Along the way, viewers witness Allen's gradual awakening to the reality of his situation and the strength it took for him to leave the cult and move on with his life.

One of the most impressive aspects of Holy Hell is the way it weaves together the personal narratives of the former members with an objective exploration of the cult's history and practices. The film never shies away from showing the darker aspects of the group's activities, including its patriarchal structure, abuse of power, and manipulation of its members. Despite the sometimes shocking revelations, however, there is a sense of empathy and understanding that pervades the film. Rather than demonizing the cult's members, the documentary humanizes them, showing the struggle that many of them faced as they tried to reconcile their personal beliefs with the disturbing reality of the group they were a part of.

The film is also notable for its visual style, which combines archival footage with present-day interviews to create a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The director's use of close-ups and tight shots creates a feeling of claustrophobia and emotional intensity that resonates throughout the film. This approach is particularly powerful during the scenes that depict the cult's rituals and ceremonies, which are both mesmerizing and unsettling.

In the end, Holy Hell is a film that raises important questions about the nature of cults, spirituality, and personal transformation. As the former members of Buddhafield recount their experiences and reflect on their time in the group, viewers are invited to consider the ways in which we are all vulnerable to manipulation, and the importance of critical thinking in safeguarding our own well-being. The documentary poses a challenge to its audience to question their own beliefs and assumptions, and to remain vigilant against the dangers of blind faith and charismatic leaders.

Overall, Holy Hell is a stunning documentary that offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a cult. It is a powerful reminder of the need for awareness, compassion, and the willingness to ask difficult questions. The film succeeds in drawing the viewer in with its compelling storytelling, and leaves a lasting impression that is at once haunting and profound.

Holy Hell is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 64.