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Deep Dive: Deprogrammed (2015)

Film Lens

Deprogrammed
In 'Deprogrammed,' viewers learn about Ted 'Black Lightning' Patrick, a key figure in the deprogramming movement that began in the early 1970s. The documentary focuses on Patrick's efforts to remove individuals from cults through physical and mental means. It presents a detailed account of the underground network that formed around Patrick, which included concerned parents, ex-cultists turned deprogrammers, and supportive law enforcement officials. The film raises ethical questions regarding the methods used in deprogramming and the consequences of forcibly extracting individuals from their beliefs. Through interviews and archival footage, 'Deprogrammed' presents personal stories from both deprogrammers and those they aimed to assist, revealing the complexities of this controversial practice.

Why Watch

  • Meet Ted 'Black Lightning' Patrick and his controversial methods.
  • Find out about the underground deprogramming network.
  • See personal stories from ex-cultists and their deprogrammers.

Did You Know

Ted Patrick is known as 'Black Lightning' and was pivotal in deprogramming.
The deprogramming movement began in the early 1970s.
The documentary has a runtime of 90 minutes.
The film features interviews with Ted Patrick and other key figures.

Perfect For

Cult dynamicsPsychological manipulation1970s counterculture