The Source Family

Watch The Source Family

"God Has A Rock Band"
  • TV-14
  • 2013
  • 1 hr 38 min
  • 6.8  (1,437)
  • 62

The Source Family is a documentary film released in 2012 that tells the story of the Source Family, a 1970s Los Angeles-based spiritual commune founded by Father Yod (born James Edward Baker). The group was known for their unconventional lifestyle, which included their own health food restaurant, rock band, and clothing line. The film features interviews with former members of the Source Family, including founding members Ahom Aquarian and Isis Aquarian, as well as archival footage and reenactments.

The film begins with a brief history of Father Yod's life before he became a spiritual leader. He was a decorated World War II veteran and successful businessman who later became a student of eastern spirituality and alternative medicine. In 1969, he formed the Source Family as a communal living experiment, and soon after, he started preaching his own brand of spirituality, which was a mix of esoteric teachings from various traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Eastern religions.

The movie then chronicles the rise of the Source Family, showing how it attracted many followers who were looking for an alternative lifestyle to the mainstream culture of the time. The group's members were devoted to Father Yod, whom they saw as a guru and spiritual guide. They followed his teachings and lifestyle regimen, which included meditation, vegetarianism, and communal living. The members of the Source Family were known for their distinctive appearance, which included long hair, flowing robes, and elaborate jewelry.

The film delves into the group's day-to-day life, showing how they operated their health food restaurant, the Source Restaurant, which quickly became popular among L.A.'s health-conscious community. The restaurant was staffed entirely by members of the Source Family, and the menu featured organic, whole foods that were ahead of their time. The film includes interviews with some of the restaurant's patrons, who remember it as a magical and transformative place.

The Source Family also had a rock band, called Ya Ho Wa 13, which was fronted by Father Yod himself. The band's music was a mix of psychedelic rock and devotional music, and they performed regularly at their restaurant and other venues around L.A. They released several albums, which have since become cult classics.

As the group grew in popularity, they also attracted attention from the media and law enforcement agencies. The Source Family was accused of drug use and child neglect, and they faced several raids and arrests. The film details these events, showing how they affected the group and the ultimate outcome.

Throughout the film, there are candid interviews with former members of the Source Family, who share their personal experiences and insights into the group's workings. Many of them describe the group as a positive and life-changing experience, while others talk about their disillusionment and eventual departure.

Overall, The Source Family is a fascinating and engaging documentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked chapter in alternative spirituality and counterculture history. The film does an excellent job of balancing historical context with personal stories, making it an informative and emotionally resonant viewing experience.

The Source Family is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 62.

The Source Family
Description
Where to Watch The Source Family
The Source Family is available to watch free on The Roku Channel Free, Tubi TV, Vudu Free and Kanopy. It's also available to stream, download and buy on demand at Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Amazon and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Source Family for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    2013
  • MPAA Rating
    TV-14
  • Runtime
    1 hr 38 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.8  (1,437)
  • Metascore
    62