A controversial Scientology documentary that the organisation tried to block has now dropped on Netflix, nearly a decade after it first hit screens.
Loosely based on Lawrence Wright’s book of the same name, the 120-minute movie details the history of Scientology, from its creation by sci-fi writer L. Ron Hubbard, through to the group’s close relations with multiple Hollywood stars.
The film also tells the story of ex-members who detail what they saw and experienced while part of Scientology, their difficulties in leaving, and the harassment they received thereafter.
The doc filmed in secret to avoid the ire of Scientology, while the organisation tried to block its release, with GibneytellingThe Hollywood Reporter: “Every step of the way, every distributor, every festival has received multiple threatening letters from the Church of Scientology. Some have come very close to buckling.”
Critics at the time praised the movie, while at the same time being critical of Scientology. The ObservercalledGoing Clear “chilling, damming stuff.”
Sight and Soundsaid: “Alex Gibney’s film, like Wright’s book, is a useful contribution to what looks more and more like an urgent social priority: the push to discourage people from praising the chains that bind them.”
While Little White Lieswrotethat the documentary “confirms all negative inklings you may have about this purportedly shady organisation.”
Related:
Going Clear is now available on Netflix in the US. Head here for morestreaming moviesandstreaming TV shows. While you can click here to find outif Glen Powell has joined Scientology.
Chris Tilly is the TV & Movies Editor at Dexerto. He has a BA in English Literature, an MA in Newspaper Journalism, and over the last 20 years, he’s worked for the likes of Time Out, IGN, and Fandom. Chris loves Star Wars, Marvel, DC, sci-fi, and especially horror, while he knows maybe too much about Alan Partridge. You can email him here: chris.tilly@dexerto.com.
