Documentary examines Japan's Aum Shinrikyo cult and attacks

"Aum: The Cult at the End of the World" is a new documentary about the Aum Shinrikyo cult, known for its 1995 sarin gas attack on the Tokyo subway. The film, directed by Ben Braun and Chiaki Yanagimoto, combines perspectives from both America and Japan. It explores how this infamous group formed and the vulnerabilities it exploited in society. The documentary follows the story of Shoko Asahara, who transformed a yoga group into a dangerous cult. Asahara preyed on vulnerable people, selling false cures and promoting his supposed spiritual powers. He urged followers to cut off ties with their families and reject outside influences, leading to tragic consequences. Although the documentary is well-researched, it often feels more focused on the genre of true crime than on Aum itself. The film features interviews with former cult members and journalists affected by the attacks. These personal accounts highlight the destructive impact of Aum on individuals and families. One of the film's notable contributions is the perspective of Fumihiro Joyu, a former spokesman for the cult. His interviews offer insight without expressing remorse for his past. However, the film struggles to connect his experiences to the broader societal issues that contributed to Aum's growth. Overall, while "Aum: The Cult at the End of the World" provides a chilling look at the cult, it sometimes misses deeper insights into the societal factors that allowed it to thrive. The film will be released in theaters on March 19, 2025, and will be available for digital viewing on March 28.