Jesus Camp

Jesus Camp

(Jesus Camp), Heidi Ewing, Rachel Grady / USA , 2006
original version / Czech sub-subtitles, 84 min

America's Evangelical community is growing ever stronger. Its main aim is not to lead God to earth but rather to return the whole of the earth to God. Evangelicals believe that it is necessary to triumph over conservative Christians, take possession of the government and set their own rules. Alongside its political programme, this organisation focuses on the education of children and new members. As well as receiving instruction at home children also visit groups and camps where they are inculcated with the one true view of the world. It is not possible to remain a neutral observer of these unshakable truths, empty slogans and emotional speeches. The beliefs and speeches which pass before the viewer are traditionally connected with positive values. Here, however, they have grown into fanaticism. The film shows how free will is taken from the children, how they are violently isolated and surrounded by unequivocal claims, rules and opinions about which there can be no discussion. The filmmakers tackle this issue with unusual courage and firmly integrate themselves with this closed community in order to reveal the unknown and dark side of a religious organisation.