Cults have existed for centuries. Many have even established their names based on their malpractices or scandals. A few among the host of recorded cults have practiced teachings that had occasionally been labeled as immoral. Some of the most infamous cults of all time, according to CBS News, are Love Has Won, NXIVM, Heaven’s Gate, The Manson Family, Children of God, and The Peoples Temple, among several others.
Moreover, there are several cult documentaries about these evil groups. Some of the best ones are now available to stream on Hulu. Here is a list of them if one is interested in cult-related projects.
The Secrets of Hillsong
Hulu’s four-part cult documentary The Secrets of Hillsong was released in early 2023. This documentary showcases the controversies surrounding the megachurch Hillsong. Founded in 1980, Hillsong has been criticized by the media, Christian leaders, politicians, and several others. Some of the scandals involved its finances, treatment of the LGBT community, etc.
According to Rotten Tomatoes, its synopsis reads, “The Secrets of Hillsong features the first interviews with former pastors Carl and Laura Lentz since their public ouster from the church, which for years counted musicians, actors, athletes and other celebrities among its flock.”
It continues, “The Secrets of Hillsong also features poignant conversations with many of the congregants navigating the still-unfolding global reckoning as the church faces a rash of fresh revelations. With fresh reporting and analysis from journalists, historians and policymakers. The Secrets of Hillsong goes beyond the sensational headlines and behind the velvet rope to examine the church’s long pattern of covering up misconduct to protect itself.”
The Secrets of Hillsong stars Carl Lentz and Laura Lentz.
Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God
Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God is a series in three parts. It shows the life and death of Amy Carlson, the founder of the cult Love Has Won. CBS News reported that this cult was founded in 2006, whereby Carlson claimed that she was 19 billion years old.
On April 28, 2021, officials discovered her mummified corpse. Her autopsy report stated that she died due to alcohol abuse, anorexia, and colloidal silver dosing.
As per HBO, the official synopsis of Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God reads, “Love Has Won: The Cult of Mother God chronicles the life and death of Amy Carlson, also known as Mother God, a self-proclaimed spiritual savior who built a cult through her online manifestos and live-streaming sessions.”
It further states, “As Amy’s health declined, her followers believed her death would lead to her evacuation by UFO and salvation for humanity. Told through the eyes of Amy’s devotees and constructed from the cult’s archival footage, the three-part docuseries captures the perils of internet proselytizing and a conspiracy-driven faith.”
Aside from being one of the executive producers, Hannah Olson directed this Hulu documentary series.
Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence
Debuting on February 9, 2023, Stolen Youth narrates the story of Larry Ray and his cult at Sarah Lawrence College. The cult was heavily involved in extortion, sex trafficking, money laundering, and racketeering.
According to its trailer on YouTube, the synopsis reads, “A group of bright Sarah Lawrence College students fall under the dark influence of a friend’s father, Larry Ray. With unprecedented access to the survivors who lived with Ray, the series follows the cult from its origins through its still-unfolding aftermath.”
Zachary Heinzerling directed Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence, with music provided by Martin Crane.
Watch the above listed cult documentaries on Hulu.
