Getting High For God? is a powerful and intriguing British documentary led by the charismatic and multi-talented Mawaan Rizwan. Known for his diverse talents as a comedian, presenter and actor, Rizwan's unique approach to life and genuine sense of curiosity makes him the perfect driving force behind the movie. The title isn't used just as a provocative hook to reel you in, it accurately describes the content and themes of the movie. Combining religious exploration and the use of psychoactive substances to induce spiritual, visionary, or other transcendent experiences, the film offers a bold perspective on religion, spirituality, and our intrinsic need for a deeper understanding of our existence.

The narrative follows Rizwan on a riveting journey that takes viewers across uncharted landscapes, as he embarks on a personal mission. His objective? To discover why people across various religions and societies all over the globe turn to mind-altering substances to help them experience spiritual epiphanies and connect with realms beyond the physical. He explores the concept of unconventional worship methods and uncovers the rise of a new kind of spirituality, one where sacred plants and psychoactives are used to foster a closer relationship with the divine.

Getting High For God? chronicles Rizwan's voyage as he delves deeply into these generally controversial practices that seek to blend faith and psychedelic substances. From the Amazon rainforest, where he discovers the healing power of Ayahuasca, a potent hallucinogenic used by the indigenous tribes in spiritual ceremonies, to the entirely different setting of Salt Lake City, Utah, where he finds members of the Mormon community using psychedelic substances as part of their religion.

A prominent theme throughout the film is Rizwan's openness and eagerness to immerse himself fully in the experiences he seeks to understand. This authenticity allows viewers to feel like a part of his journey, experiencing the highs and lows alongside him. Getting High For God? is not simply an observational documentary, Rizwan ensures it is a participatory act, plunging himself into these complex practices, providing us with raw and unfiltered views of these practices.

Throughout his journey, Rizwan also engages in enlightening conversations with experts and scholars versed in religion, neuroscience and psychedelia, to gather their inputs and insights. This diverse range of viewpoints provides a balanced and measured perspective on the topic and ensures the narrative remains grounded.

Through his unwavering, unbiased lens, Rizwan presents the story without judgement, allowing the viewers to draw upon their own conclusions about these unconventional practices. By doing so, he manages to strike a balance by honouring the traditions he’s studying, while also adding his unique sense of humour to lighten some of the heavier moments.

Getting High For God? is a respectful exploration into culturally rich and profound spiritual practices. At its core, it seems to question the need for society’s rigid religious structures, pondering if the divine connection is possible through personalized paths that are decoupled from the mainstream. The documentary brings its audience along in its quest for illumination. Rizwan’s journey becomes our own, sparking contemplation on spirituality, faith, and our relationship with the divine in a contemporary world.

In addition to its thematic depth, the film also impresses with its visual documentation. From dense, verdant jungles to stark deserts, the picturesque cinematography and the vivid imagery not only adds to the allure of the film, but also complements the psychedelic themes that permeate throughout the narrative.

In conclusion, Getting High For God? serves as a thought-provoking exploration of religion, spirituality, and human consciousness. It's a striking and engaging piece of work that unflinchingly challenges conventions and encourages its audience to do the same. With Mawaan Rizwan at the helm, the film successfully intertwines culture, faith, and psychedelics in a seamless and intriguing narrative that will leave viewers grappling with profound questions about their own spiritual journeys and the greater universe. For anyone interested in documentaries that explore faith, spirituality, human consciousness, and unconventional practices, Getting High For God? is a fascinating watch.