Sci-Fi Films About Religious Cults

Description: A classic horror film where a policeman investigates a disappearance on an isolated island, only to find a pagan cult practicing rituals. The film's eerie atmosphere and the cult's practices make it a fitting entry for this list.

Fact: The film was originally released with an X rating in the UK due to its controversial content. It has since been recognized as a cult classic.

Description: Based on Margaret Atwood's novel, this film depicts a dystopian society where women are subjugated by a theocratic regime. While not strictly sci-fi, its exploration of religious control and oppression fits the theme.

Fact: The film was adapted into a critically acclaimed TV series in

Description: While not explicitly about a religious cult, "The Matrix" explores themes of control, belief, and the nature of reality, with the Matrix itself acting as a kind of controlling entity akin to a cult. The film's exploration of free will versus predestination mirrors the dynamics of cult leadership.

Fact: The idea for the film was inspired by the philosophical works of Jean Baudrillard, particularly "Simulacra and Simulation." The film's iconic green code was actually a mixture of sushi recipes and Japanese characters.

Description: M. Night Shyamalan's film about a secluded village where the elders maintain a cult-like control over the inhabitants, using fear of the unknown to keep them in line. The film explores themes of isolation, control, and the nature of belief.

Fact: The film was shot in a single location, creating an authentic sense of isolation. The creatures in the woods were inspired by Shyamalan's childhood fears.

Description: In a post-apocalyptic world, Eli carries a sacred book, which becomes the object of desire for a cult leader who wants to control the population through religion. The film examines the power of belief and the manipulation of faith in a dystopian setting.

Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, with some scenes filmed in the same locations used for "Breaking Bad." The book Eli carries is actually a prop, not a real Bible.

Description: While primarily a horror-comedy, the film reveals a secret organization manipulating events to appease ancient gods, functioning much like a cult. The twist ending and the exploration of genre tropes make it a unique addition.

Fact: Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard wrote the script in just three days. The film was intended to be a meta-commentary on horror films.

Description: This film delves into the concept of fate and free will, with a mysterious organization that controls human destiny, resembling a cult-like structure. The Adjustment Bureau's agents ensure that people follow their predetermined paths, much like a religious cult enforcing its doctrine.

Fact: The film is based on a short story by Philip K. Dick, "Adjustment Team." The hats worn by the agents were inspired by the fedoras worn by Dick himself.

Description: A documentary crew follows a man to a remote commune, revealing a sinister cult. The film's found-footage style adds to the realism and tension, making it a chilling exploration of cult behavior.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life Jonestown massacre. Director Ti West used a documentary format to blur the lines between fiction and reality.

Description: A dinner party turns into a psychological thriller where the host reveals her involvement in a mysterious cult. The film's slow build-up and the exploration of grief and manipulation make it a compelling watch.

Fact: The film was shot in just 20 days. The director, Karyn Kusama, used real-life experiences of loss to craft the film's emotional depth.

Description: Two brothers return to the UFO death cult they escaped as teens, only to find strange phenomena occurring. The film blends sci-fi with cult dynamics, exploring themes of belief, reality, and time loops.

Fact: The film was made with a very low budget, relying heavily on practical effects. The directors, Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, also star as the brothers.