Watch Louis Theroux

Louis Theroux is a British documentary filmmaker who has made a name for himself through his wry and insightful approach to some of the most fascinating and controversial subjects of our time. In this 2008 series from the BBC, Theroux embarks on a new set of adventures, delving deep into the worlds of American subcultures to explore their rituals, beliefs, and ways of life.

Over the course of six hour-long episodes, Theroux immerses himself in a variety of communities, each with its own unique quirks and challenges. He starts by traveling to Las Vegas, where he meets a group of high-functioning autistic adults who have come together to form their own social group. Through spending time with these individuals, Theroux gains a deep understanding of the challenges they face on a daily basis, as well as the ways in which their shared experiences have brought them together.

From there, Theroux moves on to explore the world of survivalists, those people who have taken emergency preparedness to the extreme, stocking up on supplies and training for worst-case scenarios. Through his interactions with these individuals, Theroux uncovers the fears and anxieties that drive them to take such drastic measures, as well as the coping mechanisms they have developed to deal with those fears.

Next, Theroux goes deep into the world of wrestling, attending matches and getting to know some of the sport's most colorful characters. He talks to wrestlers, fans, and promoters alike, getting a sense of the complex interplay between performance, competition, and showmanship that animates this often-overlooked sport.

In the fourth episode, Theroux explores the world of black nationalists, traveling to Harlem to meet members of the Nation of Islam and other organizations dedicated to promoting African American pride and empowerment. Through his conversations with these individuals, Theroux is able to gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which race has shaped American society, as well as the challenges facing those who seek to overcome racial inequalities.

The fifth episode takes Theroux to one of the most controversial groups in America: the Westboro Baptist Church, known for its virulent homophobia and frequent demonstrations at the funerals of military service members. Theroux spends time with the church's leaders and members, trying to understand the motivations behind their beliefs and the impact their activities have on their families and communities.

Finally, in the sixth episode, Theroux turns his attention to the world of UFO believers, traveling to Roswell, New Mexico to attend a UFO festival and meet with true believers who are convinced that extraterrestrial life exists and that the government is covering it up. Through his conversations with these believers, as well as his interviews with scientists and skeptics, Theroux is able to paint a nuanced picture of the ways in which people develop and maintain belief in the face of often-overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

Throughout the series, Theroux's understated wit and curiosity shine through, as he gently prods his subjects to reveal their deepest beliefs and motivations. Through his conversations and observations, viewers are able to gain a deeper understanding of the complex and often-contradictory forces that shape human behavior and belief, as well as the ways in which we come together and form communities around those beliefs. Packed with insights and surprises, Louis Theroux is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the many facets of American life and culture.

Louis Theroux is a series that ran for 4 seasons (48 episodes) between December 7, 2008 and on BBC