A thought-provoking documentary film, “True Believer,” was screened June 19 at the Irvine United Congregational Church, shedding light on the historical and political influence of the religious right in America. Sponsored by local resident Linda Fini, the screening aimed to raise awareness about the roots of polarization and political violence in contemporary society.

Filmmaker Kristen Irving, a former evangelical, takes viewers on a journey through the intertwined history of the religious right, the pro-life movement, and its connections to white supremacy. “True Believer,” set against the backdrop of Irving’s experiences, provides a deeply personal account through conversations with her mother and various members of the evangelical community.

Born in 1981, Irving reflects on the emergence of the Religious Right’s culture war and uncovers the origins of the pro-life movement. Initially motivated to defend the evangelical community, she faced difficult questions that led her to explore uncomfortable truths—especially the hidden history of white supremacy that intersects with her own family background.

“There is an invisible and direct line that connects the true history of the Religious Right and pro-life movements to the chaos of our current moment,” Irving stated. “It’s a history rooted in the same patriarchal white supremacy and violence that rests within our country’s core.”

Irving contends that this crucial history has been largely overlooked in both religious and secular circles, warning of its severe implications. “It is a complete severing of our humanity as a nation,” she emphasized, “the total undermining of our democracy, and the continued decline of every social, environmental, and human rights issue we hold dear.”

The film features notable figures from the early religious right movement, including Jerry Falwell and Jim Bakker, alongside the politicians they helped elevate, such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush. Older viewers may find it a nostalgic revisit to controversial moments in American history.

Fini praised the film’s impact. “It provides a greater understanding of how generations of young people were manipulated into a way of life that is patriarchal and supportive of white supremacy,” she said, awarding it five out of five stars.

The event was hosted by WAVE, Women for American Values and Ethics, and included a Q&A segment with Irving and her mother. Amy Luna Capelle, WAVE’s executive director, highlighted the film’s relevance to today’s political climate. “What we have seen instead is those on the extreme religious right pushing back against the values of liberty and justice for all,” she remarked.

Audience reactions underscored the film’s significance as a crucial commentary on America’s current political landscape. D. Mark Davis, Pastor at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, stated, “True Believer provides a starting point for some necessary and difficult conversations.”

Lyn Davis Lear, a film producer and political activist, added, “It reveals the insidious history and agenda of the Christian right while spotlighting the personal betrayal of inheriting and losing one’s politicized faith.”

Viewers concurred that “True Believer” serves as a wake-up call for Americans, particularly those within the religious subculture, to reevaluate their roles in defending democracy.

The film has garnered attention at various documentary film festivals and is available on demand for viewing. For more information about “True Believer,” visit https://truebelieverfilm.com/.

You can see a four-minute clip of the film here. The film has had successful runs at several documentary film festivals. You can see the film on demand here: https://kinema.com/events/True-Believer-lkghqm. There is a fee and viewers will get 48 hours to complete their viewing of the film. For more information about True Believer, go to https://truebelieverfilm.com/.