About Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief

'Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief' is a 2015 documentary film that dissects the intricacies of the Church of Scientology. Directed by Alex Gibney and produced by HBO, the film is based on Lawrence Wright's 2013 book, 'Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief'. Covering a broad span of the Church's history, controversial practices, and its allure to celebrities, the film is an in-depth investigation into this secretive organization.

Making / Production

This film was directed by Alex Gibney and produced by HBO. The movie was inspired by Lawrence Wright's book. Production involved a meticulous investigation, pouring over court documents, interviews, and testimonials from former members of the Church of Scientology.

Actors

• Alex Gibney: The director is not an actor per se but serves as a narrator, providing insight and adeptly guiding the narrative.
• Lawrence Wright: The author of the book and a key figure in the documentary contributes with his deep understanding and research about the Church of Scientology.
• Paul Haggis: The renowned screenwriter and director shared his life-affirming and eventually stressful experiences in the Church.
• Jason Beghe: The television actor opens up about his experiences while he was part of the organization.
• Sylvia 'Spanky' Taylor: A former Scientology member and John Travolta’s former liaison, Taylor boldly discusses her disturbing experiences within the Church.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Church of Scientology has disapproved of the film's allegations, declaring them false and defamatory.
• Several high-profile staunch Scientologists, including Tom Cruise and John Travolta, declined to participate in the documentary.
• The film was made available for free in the Church's spiritual headquarters, Clearwater, Florida, to combat the Church's misinformation to its followers.

Awards

The film was highly recognized and won three Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special. It was also nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 88th Academy Awards.

Quotes

• "You take on a matrix of thought that is fully formed..." - Paul Haggis
• "Scientology is both immoral and socially obnoxious..." - Judge Latey, quoted in the film.

Music, Soundtrack

The soundtrack of the documentary is brilliantly scored by Will Bates, which enhances the depth and tension of the film. Key tracks include "Fair Game", "The Hole", and "Brainwashing".