Review of Religulous (2008) by Wut S — 12 Jun 2010

Religulous is a (mock-ish)documentary striving to expose the absurdity of religion. Here we have Bill Maher, a comedian well-known for his stand-ups and remarks on religions, traveling across the States, voyaging Islamic Nations and touring the Vatican in order to declare the religulousness of religions.

I am no proponent of religion, but I strongly disagree with the film's disposition. Maher initially claims to only promote doubts, but as the film unfolds it is clear he has an agenda. I am strongly against how he treats interviewees with disrespect and contempt. Not all religion followers and advocates attain conviction through choice, but rather circumstances such as education and upbringing. At times, faith is a mean to cope with life when there are few alternatives. To portray all religions as foolish is to disregard history and the complexity of human nature. Maher's attitude would only catalyze hate, hindering his idealistic religious obsolescence. The editing is heavily one-sided, which led me to question the intent: is it to reveal and illuminate, or is it to unjustly affirm an opinion, to seek recognition of one's belief, satisfying one's "charisma"?

Despite how strongly I am against the film's disposition, its boldness is capable of invoking fruitful discussions - though that's hardly enough to dispel the double-edged purport. Religulous could bear a disquieting effect on certain audience. Watch with discretion.