10 Movies and Shows Similar to Jesus Camp (2006)

Description: While 'Jesus Camp' focuses on religious indoctrination, 'The Act of Killing' explores the psychological effects of violence and propaganda. Both films use unconventional storytelling methods to confront uncomfortable truths about human behavior and societal norms.

Fact: The film features Indonesian death squad leaders reenacting their killings. It was nominated for an Academy Award. Director Joshua Oppenheimer spent nearly a decade making the film.

Description: This film, like 'Jesus Camp', offers a glimpse into an isolated and controlled environment—in this case, a family kept inside their New York apartment. Both documentaries explore themes of confinement, indoctrination, and the power of external influences on personal development.

Fact: The Angulo siblings were homeschooled and rarely allowed outside. They learned about the world through movies, which they reenacted. The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: A companion piece to 'The Act of Killing', this film, like 'Jesus Camp', examines the aftermath of trauma and the power of confronting uncomfortable truths. Both documentaries use intimate, personal stories to explore larger societal issues.

Fact: The film focuses on a family of survivors of the Indonesian genocide. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival. The director, Joshua Oppenheimer, worked under anonymity for safety reasons.

Description: Similar to 'Jesus Camp', 'The Red Pill' explores controversial and polarizing topics, in this case, the men's rights movement. Both films challenge viewers to confront uncomfortable ideas and question societal norms, using documentary techniques to present multiple perspectives.

Fact: The film's title references a concept from 'The Matrix'. It sparked significant debate and controversy upon release. Director Cassie Jaye initially set out to criticize the men's rights movement but changed her perspective during filming.

Description: Like 'Jesus Camp', this film examines the effects of media and ideological indoctrination on individuals and families. Both documentaries use personal stories to explore how external influences can dramatically alter beliefs and behaviors.

Fact: The film was directed by Jen Senko, who documented her father's political transformation. It explores the rise of right-wing media in the U.S. The documentary includes interviews with media experts and psychologists.

Description: Similar to 'Jesus Camp', this film exposes the inner workings of a controversial belief system, focusing on the Church of Scientology. Both documentaries use interviews and archival footage to reveal the mechanisms of control and indoctrination within these organizations.

Fact: Based on Lawrence Wright's book of the same name. The film won three Emmy Awards. It features interviews with former high-ranking Scientology members.

Description: Like 'Jesus Camp', 'Holy Hell' examines the dynamics of a closed, controlling community—this time a cult. Both films explore themes of indoctrination, manipulation, and the psychological effects of extreme belief systems, using firsthand accounts to paint a vivid picture of life inside these groups.

Fact: The director, Will Allen, was a member of the Buddhafield cult for over 20 years. The film features never-before-seen footage from inside the cult. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received critical acclaim.

Description: This documentary shares 'Jesus Camp's' focus on the struggles of individuals leaving rigid religious communities. Both films highlight the emotional and social challenges faced by those who break away, offering a poignant look at faith, freedom, and identity.

Fact: The film follows three former members of the Hasidic Jewish community. It was directed by Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady, who also co-directed 'Jesus Camp'. The documentary was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award.

Description: This series, like 'Jesus Camp', delves into the personal stories of those affected by extreme belief systems. Both works highlight the psychological and emotional toll of indoctrination, using personal narratives to shed light on broader issues.

Fact: Hosted by former Scientologist Leah Remini. The series won two Emmy Awards. It led to increased scrutiny of the Church of Scientology.

Description: Similar to 'Jesus Camp' in its exploration of hidden truths and the impact of powerful institutions on individuals, 'The Devil We Know' delves into the dark side of corporate influence and environmental harm, much like how 'Jesus Camp' exposes the indoctrination of children in religious camps. Both films use documentary storytelling to reveal unsettling realities.

Fact: The film investigates the chemical company DuPont and its role in contaminating water with PFOA. It won the Special Jury Award for Social Impact Filmmaking at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary highlights the legal battles fought by affected communities.