Film distribution company FilmRise announced today its acquisition of U.S. distribution rights for the successful Sundance cult documentary Holy Hell. In Holy Hell, director Will Allen gives us a first-hand look inside a secretive, spiritual cult formed in 1980s West Hollywood, for which he was the unofficial videographer. The film will showcase Allen’s experiences inside the cult, along with those of fellow former cult member Tracey Harnish. The film is produced by Alexandra Johnes, and executive produced by Michael C. Donaldson, Cheryl Sanders, Julian Goldstein, and, most notably, Academy Award®-winner Jared Leto.
“‘Holy Hell’ is relentless, haunting and unforgettable,” says Leto. “This unflinching documentary exposé takes us on a beautiful and bizarre journey in search of faith, love and family, but ends up showing us how the business of spirituality, power and corruption are often religion’s ménage à trios.”
CEO of FilmRise, Danny Fisher, commented “Following its headline-making run at Sundance, we are elated to be bringing this gripping film to audiences come spring. Ultimately this is a remarkable film about the human condition, and I am confident that audiences will be engrossed by this captivating story, told by those who lived it.”
“I am so happy that FilmRise will be releasing Holy Hell in theaters for communities to experience together,” said filmmaker Will Allen. “This story is very personal but also universal, because it could have happened to anyone. And seeing how broadly it resonated at Sundance makes me excited to share it with the rest of the world.”
Holy Hell is currently scheduled for a theatrical release date of May 20th, 2016.