Watch My Scientology Movie
- Not Rated
- 2021
- 1 Season
-
6.6 (13,662)
My Scientology Movie, a 2015 documentary film that features Louis Theroux, Tom Cruise, and Marty Rathbun, explores the inner workings of the Church of Scientology. This Amazon Addon show follows the journey of Theroux, a British documentary filmmaker, as he attempts to uncover the secrets of the controversial religion.
Theroux first reaches out to the Church to gain access to their headquarters, but they deny his request. Undeterred, he turns to Rathbun, a former high-ranking member of the Church and one of its most well-known critics. Together, they attempt to recreate some of the notorious rituals and practices of the religion, using actors to portray key figures in the Church's history.
Throughout the documentary, Theroux and Rathbun are shadowed by a group of mysterious individuals, who they believe are members of the Church of Scientology's surveillance team. The pair also attract the ire of Church leaders, who launch personal attacks on both Theroux and Rathbun.
One of the most compelling moments of the My Scientology Movie comes when Theroux engages in a conversation with Tom Cruise, Scientology's most famous celebrity member. Theroux discusses some of the most controversial aspects of the Church, such as the alleged harassment of former members and "disconnection" practices that forbid contact between Scientologists and their loved ones who have left the Church. Cruise, however, refuses to engage in any discussion of these topics, insisting that the Church has only ever had positive and transformative effects on his life.
The documentary also features disturbing footage of actual Scientology rituals, such as the infamous "Purification Rundown," which involves taking high doses of vitamins and spending extended periods in a sauna. According to former members, this ritual is designed to rid individuals of the toxins supposedly stored in their bodies.
Throughout the show, Theroux presents a fair and balanced perspective on the Church of Scientology. He spends time with members who attest to the positive impact the religion has had on their lives, but he also sheds light on the darker practices and controversies associated with the Church.
My Scientology Movie is a fascinating look into one of the most secretive and controversial religions in the world. Through Theroux's engaging and insightful investigation, viewers are given a glimpse into the inner workings of the Church and the lives of its members. The show raises important questions about the nature of religious freedom, the role of secrecy in modern religion, and the responsibilities that religious organizations have to their followers. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of religion, culture, and power in contemporary society.