Review: Hot Docs provides new perspectives on familiar subjects (Includes first-hand account)

Divided into 10 chapters, the documentary examines the internet from perspectives most people have probably never considered while also reflecting on more mainstream topics. With titles such as “The Glory of the Net,” “The Dark Side” and “Internet on Mars,” Herzog thoroughly explores the advantages and disadvantages of living in a society so highly connected and dependent on technology. Beginning at the computer that started it all by sending the first message across the internet, he speaks to a number of experts and scientists in the field getting answers to questions no one generally asks, such as “Does the internet dream of itself?”

As the achievements and potential of the future is already widely publicized, the more interesting sections of the film address lesser advertised consequences and risks. Herzog interviews people who live in seclusion because they suffer from wireless radiation poisoning; counsellors who help internet and gaming addicts; scientists who believe a large solar flare would have catastrophic effects; and hackers and security analysts who reiterate how vulnerable all this information is to breaches. As usual, Herzog finds a way to look at a familiar with subject with a fresh perspective.

While Dower and Theroux don’t have access to big names, from an intelligence perspective they get one better: former senior Church official Marty Rathbun, who up until his exit after more than 25 years of membership was leader David Miscavige’s go-to guy. With his help and that of other former long-term members, Theroux hires actors to play key players such as Miscavige and Tom Cruise in recreations that demonstrate various aspects of the organization, including widespread reports of abuse. However, equally interesting is Theroux’s run-ins with the Church as they attempt to thwart his ability to shoot the movie as well as harass everyone involved.

While confirming everything in the previous film, this documentary goes further in demonstrating the inner workings and secrets of the Church. Although the recreations are somewhat silly, in some cases they do illustrate some of the more extreme occurrences that may have been less comprehensible if simply described. Rathbun is also a fascinating character as he struggles with the duality of being a whistleblower of sorts regarding the Church’s misdeeds, but is unable to come to terms with the fact that he was also a propagator of the same offences.

Focusing on clinics and doctors in Alabama, Georgia and Texas, the documentary captures their dedication to their work as well as the effects of the daily opposition they face to provide safe medical care to women seeking their services. The struggles include millions of dollars spent to comply with unwarranted requirements; the decrease in state clinics from dozens to a handful or less; the increasing lack of accessibility as the nearest provider is now too far for many women; and the stories of patients who decided abortion was their best option.

Porter does an excellent job weaving these stories together to produce a comprehensive assessment of the situation in the South. Although the film is often depressing, these feelings are the result of the facts presented rather than a calculated attempt to manipulate audiences. All of those involved are passionate and determined not to close, but in some cases the strain of their commitment is growing more challenging. However, this film is just a snapshot of the ongoing efforts to maintain this right in the United States with a Supreme Court decision on Texas’ challenge due in June 2016.

Showtimes and ticket information can be found on the festival website.