Truth Be Told (2012 film)

Overview

Truth Be Told focuses on seven individuals raised in the Jehovah's Witnesses religion. In a series of informal interviews they reveal experiences including the effects of proselytizing door-to-door, shunning non-observant family and friends, suffering the discouragement of pursuing dreams like gaining a higher education and missing other societal holidays and customs. The film cuts between talking-head interviews and visual storytelling techniques including dramatic reenactments, motion graphic sequences and montages.

The documentary features an interview with retired mixed martial arts fighter and television personality Nathan Quarry. Quarry grew up as a member of the Jehovah's Witnesses in a variously oppressive and controlling environment. After a period of self-discovery, Quarry rejected his Jehovah's Witnesses upbringing, which caused him to become alienated from his family and former friends.

The film is a non-neutral presentation of the Jehovah's Witnesses religion, arguing that it fosters a profit-driven, isolationist culture characterized by fear, totalitarian corporate leadership, intellectual & spiritual intimidation, suspension of critical thinking, failed prophecies, doctrinal inconsistency and improper handling of physical and sexual abuse allegations within the church.

The documentary is the first feature-film directed by Gregorio Smith. He describes his film as an honest glimpse into the culture of growing up in the Jehovah’s Witnesses religion that is at once immersive, informational, expository and controversial.