Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief

Released shortly after Lawrence Wright's book of the same name, "Going Clear" intensified the public scrutiny of Scientology, sparking debates about religious freedom versus potential harm to its members. The Church of Scientology launched a significant public relations campaign to discredit the film and its participants, highlighting the intense defensiveness surrounding the organization.

• Revealing firsthand accounts from former high-ranking Scientologists, offering unprecedented insight into the organization's practices and beliefs.
• Alex Gibney's skillful direction and meticulous research create a compelling and disturbing narrative, effectively exposing alleged abuses and questionable financial dealings.
• The film explores universal themes of control, manipulation, and the power of belief, making it relevant beyond its specific focus on Scientology.
• The animation and archival footage are used effectively to illustrate complex concepts and provide historical context.

Fun Facts

• The Church of Scientology purchased full-page ads in The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times to denounce the film before its premiere.
• Director Alex Gibney received numerous legal threats from Scientology during the production of the film.