Watch Eminent Monsters

As a documentary film, Eminent Monsters from 2020 tackles the controversial topic of psychological torture and its impact on those who have experienced it, as well as its relationship to the larger system of global politics. Directed by Stephen Bennett, the film features interviews with former Guantanamo Bay detainee Moazzam Begg, as well as other prominent figures in the field of psychology, history, and politics. Using previously classified documents and information, the film offers an in-depth examination of the use of psychological torture by intelligence agencies and governments, and the devastating consequences it has for its victims and for global society as a whole.

At its core, Eminent Monsters explores the infamous MK-Ultra program of the CIA, which sought to develop and perfect methods of psychological torture and manipulation during the Cold War. Through extensive interviews with former government officials and researchers, the film offers a chilling glimpse into the world of "psychological warfare," in which torture was seen as a legitimate tool for gathering intelligence and exerting control. The film also examines the impact of these methods on individuals like Ewen Cameron, a Scottish psychologist who conducted unethical experiments on his patients in the 1960s as part of the MK-Ultra program, and whose actions continue to haunt the field of psychology to this day.

In addition to its focus on the MK-Ultra program, Eminent Monsters also delves into the larger question of how psychological torture has been used in more recent conflicts, particularly in the so-called "War on Terror." Moazzam Begg, who spent years in detention at Guantanamo Bay, offers a firsthand account of the impact of psychological torture on detainees, and how it has been used as a tool of intimidation and control in places like Iraq, Afghanistan, and Guantanamo. The film raises important questions about the legality and morality of these methods, and whether they have any place in a modern democracy.

One of the most compelling aspects of Eminent Monsters is its exploration of the psychological impact of torture on both victims and perpetrators. Through interviews with psychologists, researchers, and torture survivors, the film offers a nuanced understanding of the ways in which torture can permanently damage the human psyche, leading to lifelong trauma and psychological distress. The film also examines the psychological toll on those who carry out acts of torture, exploring the complex interplay between power, agency, and trauma in the context of torture.

Despite its heavy subject matter, Eminent Monsters never feels overly didactic or preachy. Rather, it offers a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of the impact of torture on individuals and society, raising important questions about the role of governments and intelligence agencies in perpetuating these practices. Through its use of powerful archival footage, evocative music, and expertly conducted interviews, the film is able to convey the gravity of its message without resorting to sensationalism or hyperbole.

Overall, Eminent Monsters is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that is sure to challenge viewers' preconceptions about the use of psychological torture in modern times. By providing an in-depth exploration of the history and impact of these methods, the film offers a potent reminder of the ways in which our actions as individuals and as a society can have profound and lasting consequences. Whether you are interested in politics, psychology, or human rights, Eminent Monsters is a must-see film that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power and resilience of the human spirit.

Eminent Monsters is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.