Louis Theroux’s first ever feature documentary is an interesting take on the documentary genre. Considering there are already a few documentaries on the subject (Going Clear comes to mind) I guess it behooved Louis to take this approach.
With Scientology shrouded in secrecy, obtaining actual footage related to the religion and its leader, David Miscavige is incredibly difficult. Whatever footage that is available is already available readily on the internet. With that in mind, it seems that Louis made a bit of a meta film about trying to recreate some of the important moments in Scientology with actors. Throughout this process, he is guided by several important figures that have since left scientology.
It is through conversation with these defectors where the hold that scientology has on an individual becomes increasingly clear. We get insight into the tactics that the religion takes to not only gain members, but to also probe their deepest intimate details and ultimately leverage that information against the individual. The results are scarring.
In a bit of a twist, Scientology gets a hold of this documentary and their response is certainly odd and captured, giving the viewers some real insight as to how the religion harasses those who try to expose them.
As a documentary, the film’s odd turn into casting actors to recreate scenes gives the film a unique feel but for someone seeking straight up information, it can be a bit confusing. Ultimately those who want a meticulous documentary about the religion will go elsewhere, but My Scientology is an unique film that can provide some amusement.