Religulous the new documentary by Bill Maher puts religion, its conventions, and its followers under the microscope with comedic and sometimes startling results. As he travels the world Maher asks people of all different religious persuasions, from Christianity to the religion of cannabis, why it is they believe what they believe and if there are rational explanations for those beliefs. From Jesus Christ to Joseph Smith to Muhammad no religion is safe from his scrutiny.

 

Unlike the Michael Moores of the world, Maher allows his subjects to provide a majority of the comedy, with unintelligent and uninformed responses to his questions. Maher adds in witty remarks and his patented shtick but the heartiest laughs come from the reactions of the people themselves. Although it is likely that footage contrary to the message Maher intends to convey was left on the cutting room floor, interviews with priests, rabbis, scientists, psychologists, truckers, Jesus himself and many others, supply many examples for the audience to question and refute the ideologies that have become canonized some with which the creator feels have caused tragic results.

 

This film presents an interesting critique on an issue that many have been afraid to touch due to its divisive nature. Many of the techniques that are popular among contemporary political documentaries are used in this film, however it is interesting to note the lack of the “voice of God” narration common in documentaries attempting to persuade. Many modern documentaries have a directorial voice over in an attempt to manipulate the impact an image has on the audience’s emotions. Whether this was a coincidence or an intentional decision on Maher’s part, it only strengthens his commitment to the disproval of an all-powerful entity.

 

Even though his purpose is to refute God, Maher proves to be a Shepard in his own right leading the anti-sheep of the world to a promised land of their own, offering vindication to their belief that religion is followed blindly. Maher attempts to prove that this blind faith is dangerous to society and the future of civilization with some success. The film provides a good deal of laughs and insight but the broad nature of the topic leaves more to be desired. Although it is improbable this film will sway any religious convictions, Maher is effective and efficient at presenting his case. His remarkable knowledge, intelligence, and wit, give Maher not only credibility but also reasons for his film to not be dismissed. Overall this film will force the audience to think, make them laugh, and almost certainly accomplish what it set out to do. I give it 4 “R’s” out of 5.