- Genre
- Documentary
- Year
- 2019
- Runtime
- 1h26
0
Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator
Unmasking a Guru: Power, Fame, and Dark Secrets.
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Synopsis
Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator is a gripping documentary that delves deep into the life of Bikram Choudhury, the controversial figure behind the popular yoga practice of Bikram Yoga. Directed by Larissa Anderson, this film explores the meteoric rise of Bikram, showcasing his charismatic personality and the global phenomenon he created through his hot yoga classes. However, as the narrative unfolds, it uncovers darker aspects of his life, including allegations of sexual harassment and abuse from former students. Using archival footage, interviews, and testimonials, the film compels viewers to reconsider the man behind the yoga empire, questioning the intersection of celebrity, power, and the culture of silence surrounding abuse. With its emotive storytelling and layered perspectives, Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator highlights the complex discrepancies between spiritual guidance and predatory behavior in a thought-provoking way.
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Reviews
Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator has received significant attention for its unflinching investigation into the duality of Bikram Choudhury's life. Rotten Tomatoes rated the film at an impressive 96%, highlighting its engaged storytelling that juxtaposes the warmth of yoga's community with the darker narratives of manipulation and control. The Guardian remarked, "The documentary presents a painful yet necessary reflection on the cult-like followings that often characterize yoga's teaching figures." Critics have praised Larissa Anderson's approach, noting the film's ability to balance emotional weight with incisive examination. Metacritic's score of 68/100 suggests generally favorable reviews, but the raw accounts from interviewees serve as a stark reminder of the cost of fame. Emmy-winning director Anderson is commended for her empathetic yet critical lens. As Vulture stated, "The depth of the storytelling leaves a lasting impression, forcing a reevaluation of the integrity within spiritual practices." Additionally, IMDb users rated the film 6.7/10, indicating a mixed reaction from general audiences but high praise from those familiar with the yoga community's complexities. Overall, the film is both an eye-opening account of one man's controversial legacy and a broader commentary on the fragility of trust.
