Watch Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement

Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement is a 2008 documentary film that takes a critical look at the controversial practice of ex-gay therapy or conversion therapy. The film is directed by Bill Hussung and stars Wayne Besen, Richard Cohen, and Jack Drescher. The film takes a closer look at the ex-gay movement, which consists of a group of people who believe that individuals can change their sexual orientation from homosexual to heterosexual through intensive counseling and therapy. The film follows the stories of several individuals who have undergone ex-gay therapy and the impact that it has had on their lives.

One of the main protagonists of the film is Wayne Besen, a gay rights activist who has dedicated his life to exposing the dangers of ex-gay therapy. Besen travels around the country, visiting churches and conferences where ex-gay therapy is still being practiced. He talks to individuals who have undergone the therapy and shows how they have been deeply scarred by the experience.

The film also features Richard Cohen, a former ex-gay therapist who has since left the movement and speaks out against it. Cohen admits that he used to practice a form of therapy that was harmful and ineffective. He tells his story of how he came to realize that his work was harming his clients and how he has now dedicated his life to helping people who have been hurt by ex-gay therapy.

Jack Drescher, a psychiatrist and expert on sexuality, provides insight into the controversy surrounding ex-gay therapy. He explains that most medical and psychological organizations consider ex-gay therapy to be unethical and ineffective. He also notes that ex-gay therapy can cause significant harm to individuals who undergo it.

The film raises important questions about the efficacy and ethics of ex-gay therapy. It also sheds light on the harm that can be caused by those who promote ex-gay therapy. The film portrays ex-gay therapy as a harmful and ineffective practice that causes more harm than good.

Throughout the film, the individuals who have undergone ex-gay therapy share their stories of pain, frustration, and disappointment. They talk about how the therapy has made them feel ashamed, depressed, and suicidal. They also express their anger at the fact that they were promised a cure that never came.

The film's message is clear: ex-gay therapy is a harmful and ineffective practice that should not be promoted or practiced. The film raises awareness about the dangers of ex-gay therapy and encourages individuals to seek help from professionals who have a better understanding of sexuality.

Overall, Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement is a moving and informative documentary that sheds light on an important and often overlooked issue. It is a must-see for anyone who cares about human rights and social justice.

Chasing the Devil: Inside the Ex-Gay Movement is a 2008 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.