Savage Messiah

Based on a true story, an intrepid social worker (Polly Walker) in a small Canadian town uncovers the psychological abuse, sadistic rites, and brutal torture that a local commune leader known as Moïse (Luc Picard) practices on his mostly female followers. Supposedly a garden of paradise, the viewer realizes that the cult is obviously concealing some dark secrets from the outset (a premature tip of the hand that isn't the only problem with the clumsy screenplay), and too many characters do stupid or illogical things simply because the script demands it, including authorities being overly reluctant to take action despite ample evidence against the cult leader (who, as written and acted, doesn't seem nearly charismatic enough to hold sway over his flock). Nominated for seven Genies (the Canadian equivalent of an Oscar), this docudrama is definitely optional. (T. Rich)