TrueJoshNight Truly Dreadful Film

Evengyny Thanks for the memories!

Sexylocher Masterful Movie

Hadrina The movie's neither hopeful in contrived ways, nor hopeless in different contrived ways. Somehow it manages to be wonderful

bobbyshue-author This wasnt like these people were on some acid trip or 19 or 20yrs old, these people were not victims, just dumb and stupid. they were all adults and knew what they were doing, I think these people love playing victim. I dont feel sorry for these adults for bwing that dumb to think this man was a guru or even God. it was funny to watch how dumb people can be.

treavorb "Holy Hell," a documentary written and filmed by Will Allen, gives an unsettling and eerie insight into the actions and nature of an American religious cult that began in the 1980s. This documentary narrates the story of the Buddhafield cult through old video footage filmed by Allen, as well as indirect interviews with former members of the cult. The Buddhafield society, as stated by one of the former members, was never originally labeled as a cult but rather a religious, self-prospering group that promised happiness and self- discovery. This promise can be seen as somewhat believable throughout the beginning of the documentary; however, from an outsider perspective to both hardcore religion and group "family", "Holy Hell" can come off as very strange, and quite frankly, uncomfortable. The Buddhafield religion was formed through a manipulative, former aspiring actor, named Michel, who at first glance seems to be an awkwardly happy, smooth talking man that could possibly fit the role of a leader that he so desperately tries to fill; however, as time progresses one begins to truly see the maniacal nature of his "leadership." It begins simply as a supposed man of God sent to instill ideas of faith and self-acceptance through those who follow. He teaches those around him to accept themselves for who they are and to abstain from any type of self enhancement (i.e. make up, cosmetic surgery, etc.) as well as romantic relations, not only within the group but with anyone outside the group as well. He preached about the importance of community and of serving for God, however Michel is hardly ever seen serving. The actions of serving God begin to shift towards serving Michel, and it gets to the point where the members of his group, for lack of better words, became obsessive over Michel. It honestly made me feel uncomfortable viewing such a thing. It only continued to get worse as the documentary progressed. You soon discover that he sexually exploited the members of his group only to tell them that they were "special" and not to tell anyone of the events that happened. His denial of any such wrong doing and the demonization of anyone who did not agree with his ideals truly made me sick to my stomach and wonder if I should even continue the rest of the documentary. So, I think it goes without saying, but I didn't particularly love this film; however, I will admit that it was interesting.This documentary is not one for the average movie goer, due to its continuously unsettling nature. In, the documentary Allen chose to shine light on the members in a way that presented them to be no different than any other deeply devoted religious group even though their actions alone give off an uneasy feeling within oneself. "Holy Hell" can be understood best with hardened film fanatics given its highly analytical structure. The way in how this documentary was filmed lacks the sort of narrative backbone that allows a story to appeal to a much broader audience. It instead forms a sort of "glimpses-in-time" manner of delivery that gives more of an objective standpoint on the story. However, the interviews with former members, along with the narration of the film, contrastingly provide a subjective undertone, persuading the audience to see Michel in a sinister light. Due to its highly paradoxical manner of storytelling, it can be quite confusing for viewers comfortable with the classic style of narrative film. So, all in all this documentary is one for those interested in the topic and the style in which it is directed. It is definitely not for everyone, and should be watched with that in mind.

Nemesis42 It's obvious that some of the people reviewing on here are defending the cult leader. If this is a real documentary, then we are dealing with a very sick individual regarding this 'leader'.You should watch this to become aware of the dangers of getting trapped within a movement like this.The documentary is well made. The filmmaker became close to the cult leader, so we are left with a lot of footage from within the group.A must watch. It is good to know that at least one more dangerous destructive narcissist has been found out. The way he manipulates people is despicable. Evil would be a good word to describe this guy.It seems that this guy is still duping and molesting followers right now. Be aware and beware.

mmarianne This movie of the beginning of something beautiful that turns in to something ugly, personifies so many cults, how they come to be, and how hard it is to try to free yourself from all that you've been taught. I want to say thank you, so much thank you, to Will Allen, and all the wonderful people who are in this film, for showing your hearts and souls and what you've been through. I cried throughout the film, and in the end I was bawling my heart out. Having been interested in cults and also having a short (a year only) stint in one myself, I've read so many books, and watched so many documentaries and movies and clips of ex-cult-members, this one was truly the best. To all of you, thank you from the depths of my heart. Marianne