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I have just come back from seeing Bill Maher’s documentary, which is entitled “Religulous“.
I had to write about it right away, as it had a huge impact on me in a very powerful way.
I am assuming it is obvious, but if you are wondering why I may be writing about this movie on Evolving Beings, then here it goes:
Evolving Beings is about waking up out of the unconscious state of life most of us live our lives in. It is about rising up to live out the highest version of ourselves. It is about being open to growth, learning and change.
Well, guess what – in many ways that is exactly what Bill Maher’s movie “Religulous” is all about.
This movie steps up to the plate to openly talk about one of the most controversial subjects of all time – religion.
In this movie, Bill Maher will no doubt make you laugh, but more than that, he will inspire you to at least question what any religious beliefs are all about, by bringing you into a conscious state of being that craves growth and learning, in order to see a higher version of yourself than you have ever seen before. Naturally, this is only possible if you are at least a little open-minded.
Overview of Religulous
Religulous is both a comedy and a documentary, where Bill Maher shares his take on World Religion. The movie stars him, was produced by him and directed by Larry Charles.
The movie starts off in Megiddo, Israel, where Maher explains the end of the world is supposed to take place.
One of the key points he explains is that in the beginning only God had the power to destroy the Earth and end all life here as we know it. Today, humans have the power to do this and so when people speak about the end of days – they may very well be fulfilling their own prophecy. Naturally if you understand the Law of Attraction, you can see how this can easily be so.
According to Maher, “religion is detrimental to humanity, as people try to make it into something good, but it becomes heavily corrupt“. He explains that people make up any story and cling to it and it just depends on what story you were lead to believe to begin with. In the midst of all of this, rationalism has gone out the window.
Maher thus begins the movie by introducing us to his own family upbringing where religion was concerned. He was born to a Catholic dad and a Jewish mom and up until his teenage years, was brought up Catholic, at which time his family stopped practicing religion formally.
The whole point of it all is that Maher is looking for answers. Thus, he features his mom and sister in the film as they try to make sense of why they believed and did what they did, to which his mom replies, “Every family is dysfunctional”.
The rest of the movie consists of Maher on a quest to try to get a grasp of the religions out there and bring to light why they believe what they believe. To carry this out, Maher conducts a series of interviews with various people of different religions and religious standings from around the world.
It is at this point, that the movie turns hilariously funny and yet at the same time tragically sad, when one consciously sees and hears how religion is treated by people and what it leads them to do, say or believe.
Bill Maher conducts interviews with leaders from the 3 major world religions, political leaders, scientists, minority religion leaders, common citizens and even a man who claims he is Jesus’ descendant, just to name a few.
He raises questions to believers of the Bible such as whether they are bothered by all the things they believe that are not in the bible.
I preach the Gospel of I-Don’t-Know.
Bill Maher
He raises issues such as:
- Evolution and compares what religious fanatics say against evolution versus what scientists say, versus what religious leaders who agree with evolution say
- What the New Testament says versus the Old Testament and how it can be seen as another example of a self-fulfilling prophecy
- Money and why many places of worship and religious leaders are adorned with jewels, dressed in designer clothes and look like palaces
- Personal translation versus literal translation of religious texts and proves his point very well when a religious leader says to him “It is what the Bible MEANS to say”
- Gay individuals and how and why they are treated by religions the way they are
- Christianity versus nationalism as completely incompatible entities
- The Non-religious minority of 16% in the United States and how it isn’t a minority at all compared to a few other groups that are perceived more important
- Science versus religion and how the scriptures were not meant to teach science
- Similar stories and personalities from other traditions that mimic the Christian ones, leading to the fact that even something like the virgin birth is not original to only Christianity
- The judgmental attitudes of religious people, when they claim to be all loving
- How the Islam religion is a religion of peace, when they are constantly fighting
- What defines an individual as crazy and shows how we can all fall under this heading, depending on who is analyzing us and according to what criteria
One of the best parts is perhaps when he focuses on the United States and why it has become a “Christian Nation”. This is the point at which he interviews a senator who is trying to convince him of his beliefs. Maher simply points out that he has a problem trusting leaders that believe in talking snakes to which the senator replies, “You don’t have to pass an IQ test to be a senator“.
Faith means making a virtue of non-thinking.
Bill Maher
Another very thought-provoking part is when Maher interviews a senior Vatican priest, who says flat out to Maher’s many questions that, “these are all nice stories” – referring to the Bible. Maher also questions the idea of a monotheistic religion due to the many personalities and forms, by which the priest in not surprised and explains that when the Italian people were polled as to who they pray to in times of need, Jesus was 6th on the list.
Bottom line, throughout the entire movie Maher appears to honestly be seeking answers and trying to give each individual he talks to a chance to explain some things about their own religion. Unfortunately, to this Maher quickly sees that the questions he asks often stump the people that should know the answers to them or are full of hypocrisy and lacking in any logical context.
Religion is dangerous; because it allows those who don’t know, think they know. Doubt is humble.
Bill Maher
Although “Reigulous” is intended to be a comedy, Bill Maher concludes the movie with some very serious and powerful images and messages that really penetrate deep into the meaning of our existence – past, present and future.
Personal Review of Religulous
So far, reviews of Religulous have been very good, sort of to my surprise I guess, as I know that religious fanatics will probably start calling him the next anti-Christ.
It is no surprise that this movie will probably upset many people out there today. The thought I hence want to ask you to reflect on is this – if this movie upsets you, why not do some soul searching to figure out why a comedians’ simple words have the power to anger, threaten or make you feel vulnerable.
For the rest of us, if you are at least somewhat open-minded, I highly, highly recommend going to see this movie if you have not already done so.
It is an outrageously funny comedy. It is a movie for our times. It is put together brilliantly to make us think and question in order to grow and move on to the next step in our evolution, and to perhaps save the Earth and humanity before it is too late.
Although I think that perhaps the movie did not do a good enough job on separating religion from spirituality and although I know that Bill Maher is a rather atheist extremist, it still does not negate the fact that he brings up throughout this movie very valid points to reflect on. And anyone who is secure in and with their religion should have no problem with that.
I think the most powerful message to see and take away from this movie is the fact that just within any one religion people “think” they know their facts, in terms of what they believe and what they are talking about, but this could not be further from the truth and Maher showed that powerfully. The hypocrisy, the contradictions and the lack of answers to questions that should be easy, if one believes and is as sure of these things, as they say they are, is staggering.
Finally, for any of those who think that this movie is in any way a “hate” movie or some kind of “religious attack” movie, I only have one thing to say – the madness that humans have brought upon each other is and has reached upper limits. If one consciously and deeply looks at this movie, they will see it is nothing more than a wake-up call out of our madness. If we want the end of the world so badly, today we are very well in control of making that happen. Just remember – be careful what you wish for.
On a final note, I have something else thought provoking to leave you with. I wrote this review the way I did, as I am very sure what this movie was intended to do and what message it was supposed to bring. Or am I?
As I was preparing to write this review, I quickly read through a few other reviews about this movie, all that were positive like mine and guess what I found?
I found that although all of us were seeing this movie in a positive way, each of us had a different interpretation of the movie, Maher’s message, how we perceived it and what we took away from it. Now imagine that – all that from about half a dozen people, within a month of seeing a movie! Can you imagine what hundreds of years and millions of people can do for religious texts? Is it not possible that none of us need to be right and follow one way or another and just simply should take the best from anything that resonates with us?
Nah, I guess that is impossible and cannot apply the same way to what he is talking about ;)
See the following clip for a trailer of Religulous:
About the author:Evita Ochel, B.Sc., B.Ed., CHN - is the main author of EvolvingBeings.com where she writes about spiritual and personal development. She hopes to inspire people, to truly live out the life of their dreams and awaken the highest version of themselves. She is also a nutritional science and holistic health expert for optimal health and longevity. Learn more about Evita Ochel or Follow Evita Ochel on Twitter.
14 Comments to “Movie Review: Bill Maher’s Religulous”
I will make sure to see this movie. It is really up my alley. Hopefully, it will change some in a positive way in that they start to question.
I grew up in a very strict Christian home that was totally dysfunctional behind closed doors. I have tried many paths along the way since then. I found that I am not religious at all. I am a universal spiritualist.
We are all One and come from the same Source. We have just fallen asleep to our true selves. It is a state of mental madness when it comes to religion. Very distorted and I am sure far from the intended message.
Here is the common denominator in all religion teachings or should be and that is love. We were made with love by a loving being. All the rest has been man made written out of fear, pain and the need to control that which he never can. We all are beautiful sparks. Even the ones that are still sleeping.
Wonderful post.
Blessings
Titania – you have said it all with your comment!!!
I love how you describe yourself as a “universal spiritualist”. Even though I shy away and try not to apply labels to myself, we cannot escape the fact that our society revolves around and is based on labels. Hence if I had to describe myself I would use the exact same words – UNIVERSAL SPIRITUALIST
There is nothing forced in such a case, no threats, no promises, no judgments, just love and oneness.
Truly you have elaborated on this subject so beautifully and it perfectly resonates with me and what Evolving Beings is all about.
First off, Evita – I want to say how much I appreciate the way you’ve described what your blog is all about – waking up from that unconscious state we often live in – what a powerful reminder of the importance of becoming more conscious of all that we do.
I find myself to be a spiritual person – and one tied to a particular religion. I don’t think that my religion has all the answers – and I know for sure that I don’t. What I do know is that this is all a journey for me – a journey of self-discovery. And I’m evolving in the process – and I understand myself better – and the God I worship. I haven’t seen this movie, and I am open to what there is to say. I do believe that certain religions (probably most, if not all) have much that can be learned. I do believe that we are all one people – I believe that there is life after death – but I also know that I have no way to prove this. It’s something I just believe within me – whether that’s right or wrong – again this is a journey for me – and I discover more about what spirituality means to me – at a very deep and personal level.
Evita, thank you for writing this – for making me question what I believe. It is in this questioning that I evolve and grow…
Hello Lance,
First off, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and beliefs and for your feedback.
As I stated above to Titania, I would personally have to describe myself as a “universal spiritualist” – this is not a religion – it is just the best label I can come up with to kind of give people a rough idea of where I stand on all these issues where faith and religion are concerned.
Sure I believe in God and life after death, but I know deep within my spirit that I do not have to perform any duties or obligations for that to still be true – or to be granted access to those things. If I truly see myself in the other, I will act accordingly and bring out my highest version – no book or person needs to tell me that. And today my best guide and teacher, is my soul and spirit.
Does that mean that I do not appreciate the words of Jesus or Buddha or other spiritual masters? Heck no! These were amazing teachers that came to awaken us and I am so grateful to them for that! And I will continue learning from them and others as long as I am on this Earth.
In the not so distant past, I too was once tied to a religion and then as I searched for answers I questioned and then I “woke-up” as if out of a deep sleep, where I started to think for myself and what resonated with my spirit. Now that is not to say that all people tied to a religion do not think for themselves or that all religions in some way are bad – I think you said it best, when you said most if not all religions simply have something to learn.
You said it beautifully too, that this is a journey and ultimately we grow and evolve through questioning.
That is where I want to be for the rest of my life – growing and evolving, not settling for someone else’s beliefs and accepting them as my own – and that I believe is the difference between religion and spirituality.
Hi, Evita. I just forgot everything I was going to say (besides “thank you”!) when I saw your words to Lance: “the difference between religion and spirituality.”
I was raised Episcopalian. Before I became an adult, though, my family stopped attending. We started our own personal explorations, each at our own pace. I am now, also, a “universal spiritualist.” What a lovely term! I also used “metaphysician” and “spiritual philosopher”, but those are awkward, scientific-sounding and not nearly as lovely!
I still find great warmth in the traditional rituals and ceremonies. Churches with traditional architecture still appeal to me, too; there’s a presence, albeit no more a presence than I find in Nature. ;)
All this to say, I believe religion is a wonderful format or guide; a backdrop, if you will, for keeping the lessons of growth always present. Some find great comfort in following a schedule, being part of community, having lessons delivered in such a way.
I don’t choose religion, anymore. For me, it just didn’t work. I’m too independent in the way I think and question and ponder; I’m all over the place. Neither do I make budgets or daily plans! That’s too much like punching a time clock for me. I just don’t like following the rules. ;) For people like me, when I let go of religion, the spirituality is given more breathing room—and my spirit soars.
But I believe many others find great comfort in practicing their faiths through a prescribed format. And that’s okay. It suits them.
By the way, my family?…I’m the universal spiritualist, my sister is a fundamental evangelical, my brother is nothing (only because he’d never think about it; he’s really the spiritualist, too), and my mother is a fair blend of spiritualist and Lutheran/Episcopalian. ;)
Hello Julie!
Wow,I am so blessed and amazed at the wonderful answers here, first Titania, than Lance and now you added such a wonderful message!!!!
Julie you said it so well, and I believe that indeed some people not only need but perhaps may even want a religion. It is as you say with anything else in life. Some of us like others’ schedules and some are on our own schedules.
The difference is, it would be great if people attended and did the rituals or the celebrations because they were passionate about them and actually wanted to, but what I found with many people and religions is that they do these things out of obligation and that is where religion stopped making sense to me – as God has no obligations of us – that in my opinion would be way too petty for a magnificent force.
But ultimately like you, I love, love, love, love how my spirit has been soaring, opening up and reaching heights that I was never aware of nor ones I ever thought I could reach, once I separated it from a formal religion and started doing things that really made sense to me, and I was passionate about spiritually.
And like you say, for those whom it suits the option should always be there to be faithful, spiritual or religious in any way they want – the issue is of course when a person or group starts to choose for us and tell us what is right or wrong for us to choose or be.
Anyway – thank you again for the valuable addition!
Yes, Evita, you pegged it when you said “obligation.” When this is present (no matter the scenario) there’s an element of unwillingness, which can devolve into rote action, which is the antithesis of practicing a faith. Although some of us don’t find fulfillment in a religious atmosphere, those who ARE aware of the element of obligation or duty can be on the watch for it and still enjoy their faith through religious structure.
You’re amazing, Evita!
I first heard of this docu-comedy yesterday and told myself to check it out. And now, coincidentally, I came across your piece from Amzolt’s blog. Thanks for the in-depth review!
Hello Nadim – you are very welcome and I’ll add one more thing – I don’t believe in coincidences – I believe we draw things to ourselves that our soul is looking for in our personal evolution.
The movie seems like a must-watch to me!! Thanks for doing the review.
From your post and your comment answers, I am delighted to find that we are in agreement in terms of seeking for answers ourselves, rather than just rely on religious text or the interpretations of others alone. Like you, I respect the teachings of all the spiritual masters like Buddha, Jesus, etc. But what I find most important is experiential learning. My intention is to investigate what there is to validate what the teachings. What arises is a deeper sense of inner knowing. In that knowing, I am also humbled that there is so little that I am consciously aware of.
Hi Evita – I’m SO glad to have found you and your blog! It sounds like a funny movie – laughed at the senator.
I don’t think about religion much at all – it just isn’t relevant to me. I don’t think I’ve ever looked to religion for understanding or comfort – church has always given me the creeps.
Cheers! – Robin
Well done and thank you for your in depth review.
I think your review covers off the most important messages of the movie.
Cheers and keep up the good work!
I saw “Religulous” the other day myself. My take wasn’t as positive.
I like Bill Maher, generally… the problem is when he starts talking about religion he’s incredibly ignorant.
Yes, there area a LOT of crazies out there. Too many. And yes, a lot of people work very hard to remain ignorant using religion. Religion is responsible for a lot of evil in the world.
But here’s what Maher ignores – he spends about, what, 3 minutes speaking to a few Catholic priests who aren’t absolute lunatics? If Bill was really “searching” he’d tap into that vast population of religious people who aren’t like this. People who worry and consider their religions, and the truths they offer, people who understand science and evolution, who don’t view the Bible as literal, and…. btw… religious organizations have also done more good than just about anything else in this world.
Bill, along with these other new atheists making so much noise, make the mistake of assuming people are reasonable and that if we just removed religion everyone would suddenly become enlightened. That’s now how people behave. We have examples of cultures that have said “no, religion is irrational and oppressive… we shall rid ourselves of it.” China and the USSR killed more people than religion ever did. EVER. Why? Because people fill their lives with something absolutely… and if it isn’t religion, it’s politics, and if not politics, something else… and all these things can cause evil.
Thoughtful people will be thoughtful people. Sheep will be sheep. And it’s unfortunate, but that’s why we avoid making category claims. Religion makes a good scapegoat because of all the idiocy that happens in its name. But you know who gets more pissed than anyone when that happens?
Other religious people.
Ultimately, the move is disingenuous. As a comedy it’d be good, except that Bill is busy preaching – and he’s not being fair nor thoughtful in his assertions. He’s acting like a fundamentalist Baptist. No good happens by saying “you’re all lunatics and useless and evil” when clearly many are not. Good happens by going working to elevate those among you who hold abhorrent beliefs, educating them and turning that force that gives them meaning into something positive.
I know some damn fine atheists, and have absolutely no problem with someone being an atheist – I don’t think it matters much compared to how someone behaves. But a fundamentalist is also a fundamentalist – and they come in every stripe.
GIDEON – Thank you so much for your input and an additional review of this movie!
Excellent take and you bring up many good points where the whole atheist fundamentalist approach goes.
Like you say religion is capable of A LOT of good. I personally just have one beef with it (having come out of a traditional religion myself) and that is, I do not find religions empowering for people to start thinking for themselves. I feel and definitely felt trapped by limited thinking IF I was going to be true to that religion. Now yes, some people need others to think for them, but I think that if they were taught otherwise, this would not be the case.
I personally did not want to use the label of a religion just for society’s sake so I decided to abandon the label. Now I can feel free to act out of the highest version of myself with compassion, unity and love always at the core and no limiting stories to go along with that.
As a spiritual person, I could have picked on the fact that Maher does not elude to people who are spiritual and not religious and how this could work for humanity, but I chose not to as I did not think that was necessary for me.
Bottom line I do not necessarily think all religion should go and be done away with, as again it can lead to a community of good, BUT I think all of the religions could use some revamping. A bit of change here and there to really look at humanity in a new and more enlightened way. The problem is that they are so set on staying the same for fear of losing credibility that that is not likely to happen. (but due to this they are losing credibility anyway just based on how times and people have changed and continue to evolve, that people see right through this)
So yes the movie is definitely more one-sided and does not look at the whole picture, but I had and still have a positive outlook on it because I think in today’s times some (okay perhaps many) need a bit of a shaking wake up call. I know the best way to live is in balance, but we are so far away from that balance today, that I was hoping that bringing in the other extreme would give people a jolt to look at things where religion is concerned a little deeper.
Anyway – thank you again for providing another outlook that focused on the parts of the movie that Maher indeed missed.