“The Unchosen” on Netflix is a gripping cult thriller that delves into the dark and manipulative aspects of a fictitious Christian cult in England, exploring themes of patriarchy, rape culture, and the rise of a psychopathic infiltrator, all while maintaining suspenseful twists and turns. Picture: Justin Downing/Netflix
Image: Justin Downing/Netflix
I recently watched Unchosen on Netflix, a series about a fictitious cult in England, and the disturbing themes it explores make for riveting viewing.
*The following contains spoilers*
One of the real strengths of this show which was released last month, is that it was not based on any specific cult and therefore it could explore some of the darkest aspects of cult life without any fear of repercussions.
At the centre of this Christian cult known as The Fellowship of the Divine is the patriarchal system in place that not only subjugates women but instills a system of rape culture.
Early on we see how the leader of the cult, Mr Philips (played by Christopher Eccleston), is seen groping Rosie (played by Molly Windsor), the wife of one of his followers, Adam (played by Asa Butterfield).
Adam sees this act occurring in his own home, and simply turns a blind eye to his leader - presumably not wanting to risk his rapidly rising position in the cult hierarchy.
There is also one particularly disturbing rape scene between a husband and wife, used as punishment for the wife who dared to defy her partner.
The thriller plot also throws in a number of different characters, including pivotally some “Unchosen” who were not born into this particular cult.
Through the course of the six episodes, we see how one character, Sam (Fra Fee), is able to infiltrate the cult and because he is a manipulative psychopath, he is able to rise faster than anyone else. In fact, Rosie is the first to be fooled by Sam as he appears to stand for everything the cult does not.
As the series progresses though, we see his true character and how he is even worse than any member of the cult and therefore destined for a position of power within its structures.
The unwavering belief in God is also used by Sam - who himself is not actually religious at all - as a tool of complex manipulation to further his social standing in the cult.
Ultimately, this is a tense thriller with a number of twists along the way but expertly exposes the true nature of cult followings.