Holy Hell (2016)

I think this is a new genre that they're all sort of working their way through it and haven't got all the kinks worked out yet but it's a genre that works for me.

Let's be realistic.

Don't listen to the negative reviews

It is neither dumb nor smart enough to be fun, and spends way too much time with its boring human characters.

Holy Hell is an outstanding documentary. As a seasoned movie lover, it takes a really well-made, original, and interesting film to inspire me to leave a review. Anyone who enjoys religious documentaries and the like will love this one. Most can probably overlook this, but there are times where it may make some viewers feel a bit effeminate watching it because of all of the gay / feminine members of the community, but only because you are able to connect with them. Other than that, amazing. Really enjoyable, watched it a bunch of times. Well done, Will.

This movie runs a bit long yet misses the investigative nature of documenting. No need to spend more than a few minutes on the ballet dancing, mascara wearing, self proclaimed leader... it's quite apparent to anyone that he is mentally ill. What drove these people to him? lack of self esteem, childhood issues, naivety or issues themselves?? this is never explored. With a title like Holy Hell one expects details of what the victims suffered, financial ruin or irrevocable harm, loss of family and friends... This is not explored either. What was the cost? its seem more of a vague stab in the dark at trying to tell a cautionary story but never quite getting off the ground. The ending is bizarre with a failed climax at a mild confrontation, are you being a good boy?? Strange considering allegations... I feel bad for people who easily fall pray to cults and scams but in the end one should know better! If it's too good to be true it probably is...

"Holy Hell" is a documentary about a very small cult led by a man named Michel. The man who made the film happened to be the videographer for the group...and so he had a huge cache of footage that he could use to make this film. It's his personal journey as well as a history of the group during the years when he was a member.Using hypnotic techniques and a charming personality, Michel amassed a group of about 200 followers. However, over time, it became obvious that Michel was not quite the man he said he was and ultimately many within the group left...disillusioned and angry. I could say more but don't want to spoil the film.While this is a small cult, it is unusual because of all the video footage and that makes for a very compelling and interesting film. It's currently available streaming from Netflix and is well made and worth your time.UPDATE: I watched the film again. This time I found I got a bit more out of it and am updating my score to 9, as it's a GREAT general film about cults and would be great for families or friends struggling with losing people to these groups.

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