Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement

Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement from 2008 is an emotional, insightful, and eye-opening documentary that delves into the world of conversion therapy, a controversial practice that purports to convert LGBTQ individuals into heterosexuals through psychological and spiritual interventions. Directed by Bill Hussung and Mishara Canino-Hussung, the movie presents a remarkable set of personal stories and interviews that uncover the real and often heartbreaking journey of people who have undergone these conversion therapies.

The main narrative of the film revolves around Wayne Besen, a gay rights activist who is vehemently against the ex-gay movement which he believes to be inhumane and deceptive. Wayne is the founder of Truth Wins Out, a non-profit organization that fights anti-gay religious extremism and the "ex-gay" myth. Throughout the film, he uncovers the dangerous damage cause by conversion therapy and challenges the idea that homosexuality is a condition that needs to be "cured."

Chasing the Devil also features Richard Cohen, a controversial figure who is self-proclaimed ex-gay and an international healing coach. Despite having his counseling certification revoked by the American Counseling Association for multiple ethical violations, Cohen continues to ardently advocate for conversion therapy, arguing that homosexuality is a form of "sexual brokenness" that can be fixed. His belief in reorientation therapy and the methods he employs form an integral part of the film, revealing the other side of the conversation.

Further, the documentary brings into the frame Dr. Jack Drescher, a renowned psychiatrist, and psychoanalyst who discredits the scientific validity of conversion therapy. Dr. Drescher has extensively written and worked on issues related to gender and sexuality. His expert viewpoint in the film provides the much-needed clinical and scientific perspective on the topic at hand.

Chasing the Devil powerfully contrasts the emotional narration of those who have bravely walked away from the ex-gay movement, sharing their tales of pain, fear, and deception, with the perspectives of people who stand firm in their belief in the effectiveness of conversion therapy.

The movie forwards a significant challenge to the ex-gay organizations and their practices, revealing how these groups use fear to justify their claims. The film boldly explores the complex dynamics between religion, homosexuality, and personal identity, thereby opening up a sensitive and much-debated discussion about the rights of the LGBTQ community, the harmfulness of conversion therapies, and the continued societal pressure to conform to heteronormative ideals.

The documentary seems to be a journey traveling through a series of Investigative journalism, compelling personal narratives, expert commentary, and raw emotions. What makes Chasing the Devil compelling is its attempt to objectively explore both sides of the argument surrounding conversion therapy while primarily focuses on the human aspects of the issue, the personal stories brought forth in the film make the argument against conversion therapy all the more potent.

Amidst exposing the disproportionate scrutiny and marginalization that the LGBTQ community faces, it also showcases the resilience, strength, and bravery of the individuals who stand against the repressive practices and reclaim their true identities. With excellent pacing, stirring interviews, and careful storytelling, the film effectively shines a light on the ex-gay movement's pernicious consequences.

Overall, Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement presents an unflinching look at a divisive issue, resulting in a profoundly impactful film experientially. Whether viewers come to the documentary with extensive knowledge about the ex-gay movement or are entirely new to the subject, they will likely leave with a deeper understanding of the physical and psychological trauma spurred by conversion therapy and the urgent need for societal change.

With its undeniably potent subject matter and a range of powerful testimonies, Chasing the Devil stands as a significant contribution to the LGBTQ cinema that offers deeply human insights into what is often wrongly viewed as a black and white issue. As much as it is an exploration of the collision of sexuality and belief, it is a call to action for society to reject the damaging lies of the ex-gay movement and embrace love and acceptance for all.