Watch Satanis

Satanis is a documentary film from the year 1970 that explores the activities and beliefs of an organization known as the Church of Satan. This organization, founded by Anton LaVey, promotes the worship of Satan as a symbol of individualism and rebellion against societal norms. The film delves into the group's practices and rituals, including animal sacrifices and their use of dark magic. It also focuses on the personal lives of Anton LaVey and his partner, Diane LaVey, as well as the experiences of other members of the Church of Satan.

Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to various members of the Church of Satan, including founder Anton LaVey himself. Through interviews and footage of rituals, viewers gain insight into the motivations and beliefs of these individuals. Some of the members express a desire to rebel against societal norms and embrace their own individualism, while others describe the sense of community they find within the Church of Satan.

The film also features interviews with critics and opponents of the Church of Satan, who argue that the organization's practices are dangerous and immoral. One such opponent is Isaac Bonewits, a former member of the Church of Satan who eventually left the organization and became an activist against it. Bonewits and others criticize the Church of Satan for their use of animal sacrifice, which they see as cruel and unnecessary.

Throughout the film, footage from various rituals is interspersed with interviews and discussions among members of the Church of Satan. These rituals often involve the use of dark symbols and imagery, as well as the recitation of incantations and invocations. Some of the rituals are performed in a group, while others are done alone.

Despite the controversial nature of the Church of Satan and its practices, the film takes a mostly neutral tone, presenting both sides of the debate and allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. The film ultimately presents the Church of Satan as a complex and multifaceted organization, with members who hold a range of beliefs and motivations.

Overall, Satanis is a thought-provoking look at one of the most notorious and controversial organizations of the 20th century. While it is not without its flaws, the film provides a fascinating glimpse into an underground movement that continues to fascinate and intrigue to this day.

Satanis is a 1970 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.