Investigative Reports: Inside Scientology

"When the going gets tough, pit bulls call Scientologists!" These are not the words of a critic of L. Ron Hubbard's controversial philosophy, but those of David Muscavige, the ecclesiastical leader of Scientology, who delivers them from a Wizard of Oz-like pulpit at the Scientology Center as part of a ceremony celebrating the church's newfound tax free status. A&E's Investigative Reports: Inside Scientology takes a long hard look at the ironies and contradictions of the Scientology movement. Followers regularly perform "self auditing" rituals meant to "clear" their minds of "reactive thoughts." But, as the video shows, anyone who dares criticize the faith is subject to wildly zealous persecution and intimidation that would make Nixon, J. Edgar Hoover and McCarthy proud. Isaac Hayes, John Travolta and Kirstie Alley offer glowing praise of the movement and its ability to motivate them and help them maximize their career potential. Less glamorous former believers tell harrowing stories of founder L. Ron Hubbard's moody and aggressive behavior (amongst other atrocities advanced here, misbehaving believers were sometimes thrown overboard from the fleet of ships Hubbard purchased and sailed away on to avoid an IRS investigation of his church). After signing a "billion year contract" with the church, followers advance through higher realms of consciousness at increasing levels of financial investment. The video takes a wide eyed look at the war waged by Scientology lawyers against former believers who published the "higher levels" of awareness in cyberspace for free. One of the core beliefs of Scientology is to "disconnect" from those who are a negative influence in your life. Ironic, then, to see how the movement actively engages anyone who utters a negative word about them with a passion that makes the Crusaders look like pussycats. Sure to be popular, this is recommended, but not by me, at least not from my former address. Aud: H, C, P. (R. Ray)