Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief (HBO)

About Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief (HBO)

"Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" is a 2015 documentary film directed by Academy Award-winning director Alex Gibney, based on the 2013 book of the same name by Lawrence Wright. It offers an in-depth look at the inner-workings of the Church of Scientology. The film features interviews with former high-ranking officials and public members who provide an intimate insider's view of the controversial organization.

Making / Production

The film was produced by HBO, Jigsaw Productions, Sky Atlantic, and Content Media. Director Alex Gibney took great measures to conduct interviews with former members of Scientology and carefully reviewed legal materials. The film was thoroughly vetted by legal experts to protect against any legal actions from the Church of Scientology which is known for litigation against critics.

Actors

• Jason Beghe: As himself, his candid discussion about his experiences with Scientology makes a compelling narrative. He was deeply involved with the organization before leaving and speaking out against its practices.
• Paul Haggis: An award-winning filmmaker, Haggis speaks in detail about his involvement in the organization and the reasons that led to his decision to leave.
• Sylvia 'Spanky' Taylor: A former member of the Church, Taylor recounts her stern tests of faith and the tragic truths she discovered about the organization's creed.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival where it received standing ovations.
• This provocative documentary sparked substantial controversy, particularly from the Church of Scientology itself that led a strong PR campaign against it.
• It's based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Lawrence Wright's book.

Awards

"Going Clear" was honored with three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, Outstanding Directing, and Outstanding Writing. It was also nominated for another four Emmys, putting it among the most recognized documentaries of the year.

Quotes

• "You take on a matrix of thought that's not your own." - Jason Beghe
• "The truth is way, way, way stranger than fiction." - Paul Haggis

Music, Soundtrack

• The original score for the film was created by Will Bates that adds intensity and drama to the storytelling.
• Apart from the film score, "The Bridge," a song specifically written for the movie by artist Lyle Workman is prominently featured.