The Secrets of Hillsong (2023) Documentary Movie Review
In the mid-2010s, Hillsong Church from Australia was super popular. Its pastor, Carl Lentz, made headlines by baptizing Justin Bieber in an NBA player's bathtub. Hillsong was raking in over $100 million in revenue, and it became famous for Lentz hanging out with Bieber. But things took a turn in 2020 when Lentz admitted to cheating on his wife and got kicked out of the church.
A documentary called "The Secrets of Hillsong" digs into the church's glamorous image and reveals some serious problems. Turns out, it's not just about Lentz's affairs – there are stories of discrimination, abuse, money misuse, and more. As one former member puts it, if you plant things in rotten soil, you'll get rotten fruit.
The four-part series takes a close look at Hillsong, treating it like a business that once had over 100 churches across 30 countries. It explores the emotional experiences of upset members and uncovers the power moves and scandals behind the scenes.
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The documentary, produced in part by Vanity Fair, has some moments where reporters say they discovered more to the story, which can be a bit distracting. But overall, it's at its best when it gets personal about accountability and making amends.
Lead-edited by Eva Dubovoy, "The Secrets of Hillsong" tells its story in a snappy and emotionally charged way, overcoming its talk-heavy style. The first episode quickly debunks the notion of Hillsong as a progressive church, revealing its lack of diversity and support for people outside the white, male, and heterosexual categories. Volunteers were used for hard, unpaid labor, and people of color were sidelined. NYC congregant Tiff Perez shares her disappointment in giving to preach at Hillsong without receiving any support in return.
The documentary delves into the spiritual abuse within Hillsong, offering nuance to Carl Lentz's passion. Lentz, now speaking after being banned from the church, appears transformed—no more big crowds, expensive leather jackets, or flashy showmanship. Instead, he shares his story, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of discussing matters that faith didn't allow.
The documentary doesn't aim to shame Lentz but holds him accountable for failing as a self-proclaimed ally. It provides space for Lentz and his wife, Laura, to be honest, and exploring their struggles with infidelity. Lentz also discloses being sexually abused as a child, adding complexity to his narrative.
The series goes deeper, exposing allegations of child sexual abuse against Brian Houston's father, Frank Houston. Brian is accused of concealing these allegations. The third episode addresses these allegations, highlighting the courage of survivors who came forward.
Corruption within Hillsong is revealed, with some police and political figures not acting on abuse allegations, possibly due to their Hillsong affiliation. The series contrasts Hillsong's narrative of growth in America with Australia's efforts to address its problematic origins.
"The Secrets of Hillsong" presents a truthful and empathetic exploration, providing ample reasons to question the megachurch. The finale raises a lingering question about faith and its impact on individuals' relationships with God. Viewers share diverse responses, from becoming happy atheists to finding love in smaller churches. Meanwhile, Carl Lentz continues to wear a crucifix around his neck.