Cult documentaries offer a fascinating exploration of human behavior and psychology. We all think, ‘Oh, I would never fall for that…’ but plenty of ordinary people do. The process of indoctrination and radicalization at the hands of charismatic leaders is both intriguing and terrifying.
From the chilling events of the Waco siege to the revelations of Scientology, these documentaries provide a unique perspective on the impact of cults on individuals and society. Through gripping storytelling and firsthand accounts, they invite viewers to explore the darker corners of human nature and how our yearning to belong can defy all reason.
Wild Wild Country (2018)
This six-part Netflix series delves into the extraordinary true story of the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, also known as Osho, and his followers who established a utopian commune in rural Oregon in the 1980s. The documentary explores the clashes with local ranchers, legal battles, and the eventual downfall of the commune after their followers perpetrated the first bioterror attack on the United States, poisoning 751 people by deliberately contaminating salad bars at ten restaurants with Salmonella.
Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief (2015)
Based on Lawrence Wright’s 2013 book Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood and the Prison of Belief, this documentary exposes the inner workings of the secretive Church of Scientology, of which high-profile members include Tom Cruise, John Travolta, and Elizabeth Moss. Through interviews with former members and extensive research, the film uncovers the controversies surrounding Scientology and its founder, L. Ron Hubbard, revealing allegations of abuse, manipulation, and exploitation.
Holy Hell (2016)
Filmmaker Will Allen shares his personal experience as a member of the Buddhafield cult for 22 years. Led by the allegedly abusive Michel (not his real name), the documentary uses footage Allen shot during his role as the cult’s videographer, as well as new footage and interviews with former group members.
Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples Temple (2006)
This documentary thoroughly examines the rise and fall of the Peoples Temple led by Jim Jones. Through never-before-seen footage and interviews with survivors, the film explores the charismatic leader’s descent into paranoia and the manipulation of his followers. How did Jim Jones manage to convince over 900 people to travel to Jonestown, Guyana, in 1978 and take part in a mass suicide by drinking a poison-infused punch?
Children of God (1994)
This TV documentary, narrated by Helen Mirren, uncovers the controversial and criminal practices of the religious cult led by David Berg, known as the Children of God. Sylvia Padilla and her children reveal the group’s extreme beliefs, including sexual exploitation and child abuse.
Heaven’s Gate: The Cult of Cults (2020)
This documentary dives into the beliefs, practices, and ultimate tragedy of the Heaven’s Gate cult. Through interviews with former members and experts, the film examines the group’s apocalyptic beliefs, leader Marshall Applewhite’s charismatic influence, and the mass suicide of 39 members in 1997, timed to coincide with the closest approach of the comet Hale-Bopp.
The Source Family (2012)
This documentary, directed by Jodi Wille and Maria Demopoulos, chronicles the rise and fall of the Source Family, a 1970s cult led by the charismatic Father Yod. The Source Family was heavily influenced by the teachings of Yogi Bhajan and the astrological age of Aquarius and set up a commune in Southern California and later Hawaii.
The Family (2019)
This five-part Netflix series explores the secretive Christian group known as The Family or The Fellowship and its influence on politics and power. Founded in April 1935 by Abraham Vereide, the group aimed to provide Bible studies and prayer meetings. However, members share a vow of secrecy. The Family has been described as one of the most politically well-connected and secretly funded ministries in the U.S. Through interviews with former members and investigative journalists; the documentary exposes the group’s behind-the-scenes activities and connections to world leaders.
Deprogrammed (2015)
Filmmaker Mia Donovan follows Ted “Black Lightning” Patrick, a controversial deprogrammer, as he helps families rescue their loved ones from cults. The documentary explores the ethical questions around intervention and the psychology of indoctrination.
Prophet’s Prey (2015)
Directed by Amy Berg, this documentary investigates leader Warren Jeffs and the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (not to be confused with Mormonism’s The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints; they’re not as fundamental). The film exposes the group’s history of polygamy and underage marriage.
Inside Scientology (2011)
The second Scientology documentary on the list, this film from the BBC provides an insider’s look into Scientology’s controversial practices and beliefs. Through interviews with former members and archival footage, the film explores the organization’s recruitment tactics, hierarchy, and the allegations of abuse and harassment leveled against it.
The Cult at the End of the World (2007)
Michael Travesser, formerly Wayne Bent, claims to be the Messiah and prophesies an apocalyptic event on October 31, 2007. Leading a cult named Strong City in remote New Mexico, the 66-year-old ex-sailor has spent nearly two decades preparing his 56 devoted followers for the impending Doomsday, which didn’t happen. Spoiler.
Join Us (2007)
Award-winning filmmaker Ondi Timoner follows four families as they break away from a controversial religious cult in South Carolina. Seeking refuge in Wellspring, the world’s only accredited live-in cult treatment facility, they address the reality of the indoctrination they’ve endured. Returning home, they embark on a mission to hold the Pastor and his wife accountable and rebuild their shattered lives.
The Family: Inside the Manson Cult (2009)
This chilling documentary explores how Charles Manson turned a group of seemingly innocuous hippies into ruthless killers. Offering an in-depth interview with Linda Kasabian, the cult’s getaway driver, this feature-length documentary traces the harrowing events leading up to the infamous 1969 Tate-La Bianca murders.
Daughters of the Cult (2024)
This gripping five-part series delves into the history of the polygamous Ervil LeBaron cult, as recounted by those who experienced it firsthand. Operating covertly across the Southwest and Mexico, this faction of Mormon fundamentalists, led by the zealous Ervil LeBaron, carried out a reign of terror and brutality for years, earning LeBaron the moniker ‘Mormon Manson’.
The Power of Myth (1988)
In this PBS documentary series, journalist Bill Moyers interviews mythologist Joseph Campbell, exploring the universal themes found in myths and religions worldwide. Though not specifically about cults, the series sheds light on the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to belief systems, indoctrination, and the pull of charismatic leaders.
Marjoe (1972)
Directed by Howard Smith and Sarah Kernochan, this Oscar-winning documentary follows Marjoe Gortner, a former child evangelist from age three, as he exposes the fraudulent practices within the evangelical movement. The film explores how evangelists can exploit religious fervor for personal gain through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.
Kumare (2011)
Director Vikram Gandhi poses as a spiritual guru named Kumare to explore the nature of belief and the influence of charismatic leaders. Through this social experiment, the documentary challenges notions of authenticity and spirituality and (perhaps a little unexpectedly) reveals the power of self-discovery and personal empowerment.
The Vow (2020)
This famous documentary series delves into the controversial self-help group NXIVM and its leader, Keith Raniere. The series explores the group’s manipulative tactics, alleged abuse (including sex trafficking and racketeering), and the efforts of whistleblowers to expose the truth.
Seduced: Inside the NXIVM Cult (2020)
A follow-up to The Vow, this series focuses on the experiences of several women who were members of NXIVM and their journey to break free from the organization. Through harrowing interviews, the series explores the psychological mind games and trauma inflicted upon its members, as well as the resilience they’ve shown to reclaim their lives.
Waco: American Apocalypse (2023)
With exclusive footage from the notorious 51-day siege in 1993 and interviews with pivotal figures, Waco: American Apocalypse revisits a crucial moment in American history. The docuseries follows David Koresh’s ascent as the Branch Davidians’ head. It delves into the harrowing siege in Waco, marked by the most extensive gunfight in the United States since the Civil War and ending with an inferno captured on live television.
