The controversies that surround the church of scientology have been covered quite thoroughly at this point. As someone who’s relatively familiar with the religion’s ‘cultish’ reputation and practices, the news of a new documentary about the infamous church got my attention.

My hope was that documentary film maker Louis Theroux’s investigations into the church would result in a reasonable amount of new information. In truth, very little of what’s revealed in My Scientology Movie is new.

Unsurprisingly, the church of scientology denied all kinds of access to Theroux and his documentary team. As such, the bulk of what we get to see in My Scientology Movie is conversations between Theroux and ex-members of the church, including Marty Rathbun, Jeff Hawkins and Tom De Vocht. There’s also archive footage and re-enactments based on Rathbun’s experiences while inside the church.

Though generally I’m disappointed with My Scientology Movie, I did find myself somewhat entertained at times; largely thanks to the dialogue between Theroux and ‘scientology spokesperson’ Catherine Fraser. There’s also the peculiar dynamic between Theroux and Marty Rathbun, something that will surely bring a smile or two to your face.

Those who’ll get the most out of this documentary will likely be people who don’t already know much about scientology and how the church operates. For the rest of us, there’s boredom and some humour.

Happy Film Loving

G