Religious fundamentalism has always been one of the biggest enemies of gay rights, and this documentary shows us why we should be scared — very scared. After all, the trouble with both Christian and Islamic fundamentalism has always been their stubborn insistence that they are right — hence their lack of tolerance of other viewpoints.
Jesus Camp is an eye-opening documentary about the indoctrination of children in a Christian camp. It follows three kids, Rachael, Levi and Tory, as they are molded into becoming fervent "soldiers" of the Evangelical Right. The camp is led by the charismatic Pastor Becky Fischer who teaches the kids to condemn abortion, Harry Potter and, implicitly, respect for the rights of others to live as they please.
Watching the documentary can give one the jitters. But it is also important to keep track of the dangerous religious fundamentalism that has swept the world — not just in the Muslim quarters but also the Christian quarters as well. After all, the illogical invasion of Iraq by American forces has been attributed, among other things, to George W Bush and Tony Blair's fervent Christian beliefs.
For discerning audiences, this film is not to be missed!