Synopsis
How to Become a Cult Leader is a Netflix documentary series that examines the playbooks of infamous cult leaders, from Charles Manson to Jim Jones. Narrated by Peter Dinklage, the series explores how these leaders were able to gain such control over their followers, and what lessons can be learned from their rise and fall.
Cast and Director
The cast of How to Become a Cult Leader includes Peter Dinklage (narrator), Elie Honig (former federal prosecutor), Diane Benscoter (author and former Unification Church member), Yulanda Williams (former People’s Temple follower), Lola Blanc (former cult member and Trust Me podcast co-host), and Christopher Johnston (former Buddhafield member). The series is directed by Jonas Bell Pasht and Jonah Bekhor.
Premiere Date
How to Become a Cult Leader premiered on Netflix on July 28, 2023.
Story Plot
The series is divided into six episodes, each of which focuses on a different cult leader. The first episode, “Build Your Foundation,” chronicles the rise of Charles Manson, from his early life as a petty criminal to his transformation into the leader of a murderous cult. The second episode, “Grow Your Flock,” follows Jim Jones, who built a following of thousands by promising them a better life in Guyana. The third episode, “Reform Their Minds,” looks at Marshall Applewhite, the leader of Heaven’s Gate, who convinced his followers to commit suicide in order to reach a higher plane of existence. The fourth episode, “Promise Eternity,” examines Shoko Asahara, the leader of Aum Shinrikyo, who used a mix of religious ideology and chemical weapons to control his followers. The fifth episode, “Control Your Image,” profiles Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Unification Church, who used his charisma and wealth to create a cult of personality. The sixth and final episode, “Become Immortal,” explores the legacy of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, who built a utopian community in Oregon before being forced to flee the country after a series of scandals.
Critical Response
How to Become a Cult Leader has received mixed reviews from critics. Some have praised the series for its insightful look into the psychology of cult leaders, while others have criticized it for being too exploitative. The New York Times called the series “a fascinating and disturbing look at the dark side of human nature,” while The Guardian called it “a voyeuristic and ultimately unsatisfying exploration of a disturbing topic.”
My Review
How to Become a Cult Leader is a fascinating and disturbing documentary series that explores the playbooks of infamous cult leaders, from Charles Manson to Jim Jones. Narrated by Peter Dinklage, the series examines how these leaders were able to gain such control over their followers, and what lessons can be learned from their rise and fall.
The series is well-made and informative, with each episode providing a detailed look at one particular cult leader. The interviews with former cult members are particularly insightful, and they offer a first-hand account of what it’s like to be manipulated and controlled by a cult leader.
While the series is not for the faint of heart, it is an important reminder of the dangers of blind faith and the importance of critical thinking. It is also a cautionary tale about the power of charismatic individuals to exploit and abuse others.
Overall, I would recommend How to Become a Cult Leader to anyone who is interested in learning more about the psychology of cult leaders or the dangers of cults. It is a well-made and informative series that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Here are some pros and cons of the series:
Pros:
- Well-made and informative
- Insightful interviews with former cult members
- Offers a unique look into the minds of cult leaders
- A cautionary tale about the dangers of cults
Cons:
- Dark and disturbing subject matter
- May not be for everyone
- Some critics have accused the series of being exploitative
Overall, I think How to Become a Cult Leader is a valuable and important series. It is well-made, informative, and thought-provoking. While it is a dark and disturbing subject matter, it is important to be aware of the dangers of cults so that we can protect ourselves and others from being exploited.
Life Lessons
Despite its dark subject matter, How to Become a Cult Leader offers some valuable life lessons. Here are a few of them:
- Be wary of people who promise you the world.
- Don’t give up your critical thinking skills just because someone tells you they have all the answers.
- Trust your gut instinct. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you think you’re being manipulated.
- There is no shame in leaving a cult.
Conclusion
How to Become a Cult Leader is a thought-provoking and disturbing documentary series that offers a unique look into the minds of some of the most notorious cult leaders in history. While it may not be for everyone, it is an important reminder of the dangers of blind faith and the importance of critical thinking.