Netflix’s newest docuseries, “How to Become a Cult Leader,” delves deep into the captivating and unsettling world of cults and their enigmatic leaders. Narrated by Peter Dinklage, known for his role in “Game of Thrones,” the six-part series aims to unravel the psychology and tactics used by cult leaders to amass devoted followers who are willing to surrender their lives to their charismatic influence. Scheduled to premiere on July 28, 2023, the docuseries promises a chilling exploration of some of history’s most infamous cults and their tragic consequences.
How to become a Cult Leader
The series opens with Peter Dinklage guiding viewers through the playbook used by cult leaders to achieve unconditional love, unwavering devotion, and the ultimate power to control the minds, bodies, and souls of their followers. The manipulation begins with offering the allure of unconditional love and endless devotion, closing followers off from the outside world, and presenting a facade of perfection in action.
For those intrigued by the dark underbelly of power dynamics, Netflix has a treat in store with the upcoming series, “How To Become A Mob Boss.” Produced in collaboration with Citizen Jones, this new show promises to explore the allure and dangers of mob leadership, providing another captivating journey into the world of manipulative figures.
Heaven’s Gate: The Tragedy of a Doomsday Cult
Among the notorious cult leaders featured is Marshall Applewhite, the leader of the infamous Heaven’s Gate cult. With chilling conviction, Applewhite convinced dozens of followers that they could attain an “evolutionary level above human” by following his directives. In a horrifying culmination of their beliefs, nearly 40 followers, including Applewhite himself, died by mass suicide in 1997, seeking to transfer their souls into advanced extraterrestrial bodies aboard a spacecraft.
Jim Jones: The Mass Murder-Suicide at Jonestown
The docuseries also delves into the dark tale of Jim Jones, whose cult, Peoples Temple, ended in a mass murder-suicide in Jonestown, Guyana. More than 900 followers lost their lives in the horrific event. Some willingly died by suicide, while others were forced into compliance, facing armed guards or fatal poison injections if they attempted to escape.
With an impressive team of executive producers, including Jonas Bell Pasht, Jonah Bekhor, Peter Dinklage, David Ginsberg, and Jake Laufer, “How To Become A Cult Leader” guarantees a well-crafted and compelling narrative that delves deep into the minds of these megalomaniacal leaders. Taking a more light-hearted approach to the subject matter, “How To Become A Cult Leader” offers a unique perspective on the often unsettling world of cults. The series combines elements of dark humor and astute analysis to shed light on the psychological dynamics that lead individuals to follow such manipulative leaders blindly.
The Power of Numbers
The series examines how cult leaders strive to increase their following, viewing it as a symbol of their power. The larger the number of followers, the more control they wield over their devotees, creating a dangerous cycle of dependence. Executive produced by Jonas Bell Pasht, Jonah Bekhor, Peter Dinklage, David Ginsberg, and Jake Laufer, “How to Become a Cult Leader” offers an in-depth exploration of some of the most notorious cults in history. With six episodes dedicated to unraveling the minds and methods of these cult leaders, the docuseries promises to be an eye-opening and chilling experience for viewers.
As “How to Become a Cult Leader” prepares to premiere on Netflix, audiences will be captivated and disturbed by the glimpse into the minds of cult leaders who wielded immense influence over their followers. Through riveting storytelling and profound insights, this docuseries will provide a comprehensive look into the chilling world of cults and the tragic consequences of blind devotion. Be prepared for a gripping journey into the dark side of human psychology when all six episodes stream on July 28, 2023.