Name: Hail Satan?
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2019-04-17T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Nicholas Crowe, Malcolm Jarry, Lucien Greaves, Jesper Aagaard Petersen, Jex Blackmore

The opening shot of Hail Satan? lingers on a group of smiling, horned figures standing before a city hall, their Baphomet banner unfurled. It’s an image that could be easily dismissed as a stunt—until Penny Lane’s documentary reveals the layers beneath.

Lane’s film is a portrait of The Satanic Temple (TST), a movement that blends activism with religious satire to challenge Christian privilege in America. What starts as a publicity prank against Florida’s then-governor Rick Scott evolves into a serious campaign for secularism, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ equality. Lane’s approach is both mischievous and methodical, using archival footage, interviews, and dramatic reenactments to trace the group’s rise from an internet meme to a legitimate religious force.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to balance humor with genuine political urgency. Scenes like the TST’s “invocation” at a city council meeting—delivered by a member dressed as Satan—are darkly funny, but they also underscore the group’s broader mission: exposing hypocrisy in government-endorsed Christianity. Lane lets the absurdity speak for itself, whether it’s Lucien Greaves and Malcolm Jarry, TST co-founders, explaining their strategy or members like Jex Blackmore discussing their activism with earnest conviction.

Lane’s direction is sharp and unflinching, never shying away from the controversies that surround the TST. She interviews critics, including law professor Jay D. Wexler, who provides a measured perspective on the group’s legal battles. The film’s most compelling moments come when it delves into the personal stories of its members—like Lynita Killen, who describes her journey from evangelical Christianity to Satanism as a path toward self-acceptance.

The documentary’s pacing can feel uneven at times. Lane’s fascination with the TST’s origins is clear, but the film occasionally struggles to maintain momentum as it jumps between historical context, personal anecdotes, and legal battles. A tighter edit might have helped keep the narrative focus sharper.

That said, Hail Satan? succeeds in demystifying a movement often sensationalized by media. By giving TST members space to articulate their beliefs—separation of church and state, social justice, and individual freedom—the film challenges viewers to reconsider preconceived notions about Satanism.

The performances from the TST members are authentic and engaging. Nicholas Crowe, Malcolm Jarry, and Lucien Greaves, in particular, bring a mix of humor and seriousness to their roles as key figures in the movement. Their interviews are candid, revealing the intellectual depth behind their provocative actions.

Lane’s film is not just about Satanism; it’s about religious freedom and the fight against institutionalized privilege. The TST’s campaign to place a statue of Baphomet next to a Ten Commandments monument serves as a powerful metaphor for their broader goals. It’s a visual representation of their demand for equality in public spaces.

Hail Satan? is a film for those who enjoy documentaries that challenge societal norms and provoke thought. It’s for viewers who appreciate a blend of humor and activism, and who are willing to engage with complex ideas about religion and politics. The film doesn’t offer easy answers, but it does ask important questions—questions that resonate long after the credits roll.

The film also stands out for its exploration of the intersection between religion and activism. Lane’s decision to focus on the TST’s legal battles and public actions highlights the group’s strategic use of religion as a tool for social change. The documentary’s most powerful moments come when it shows the TST’s members in action, whether they’re protesting outside government buildings or testifying before city councils.

Hail Satan? is a film that demands attention, not just for its subject matter but for Lane’s skillful direction and the compelling stories she brings to life. It’s a documentary that challenges viewers to think critically about the role of religion in public life and the ways in which activism can be used to challenge entrenched power structures.

The film’s exploration of the TST’s origins is particularly fascinating. Lane’s decision to include interviews with early members, such as Nicholas Crowe, provides valuable context for understanding the group’s evolution from a small online community to a national movement. These interviews also highlight the personal motivations behind the TST’s activism, adding depth and complexity to the film’s narrative.

Hail Satan? is a documentary that will appeal to a wide range of viewers. For those interested in religion and politics, it offers a unique perspective on the role of faith in public life. For fans of activism and social justice, it provides an inspiring look at how grassroots movements can effect real change. And for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted documentary, Hail Satan? is a must-watch, thanks to Lane’s skillful direction and the compelling stories she tells.

The film also benefits from its use of archival footage and dramatic reenactments. These elements add visual interest to the documentary and help to bring the TST’s story to life. The reenactments, in particular, are effective in conveying the emotional core of the group’s activism, making it easier for viewers to connect with the film’s subjects.

Hail Satan? is a film that will leave a lasting impression on its audience. It’s a documentary that challenges viewers to think critically about important issues and to consider the role they can play in creating a more just and equitable society. With its blend of humor, activism, and insightful commentary, Hail Satan? is a standout documentary that deserves to be seen.

In conclusion, Hail Satan? is a fascinating exploration of a unique movement. It’s a film that demands attention, not just for its subject matter but for Lane’s skillful direction and the compelling stories she brings to life.

Tags: Hail Satan?, Lucien Greaves, Malcolm Jarry, Nicholas Crowe, Penny Lane