Orientation: A Scientology Information Film (1996)

Orientation: A Scientology Information Film Poster

An introduction and overview to Scientology.

Introduction
"Orientation: A Scientology Info Movie" is a short-length movie, launched in 1996, designed to present brand-new members to the Church of Scientology. The self-described religious company is reputedly deceptive, however this movie attempts to clearly describe the functions, practices and tenets of Scientology.

Hosted by Larry Anderson
Actor Larry Anderson, known from the tv series "The Aftermath of Scientology", functions as the host of the film. Anderson belonged to the Church of Scientology at the time of recording. Throughout the movie, Anderson provides various aspects of Scientology, its mentors, and the life of its founder, science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard.

Scientology's Principles and Practices
The film outlines the standard principles of Scientology, emphasizing it as a religion that uses precise courses leading to a total and particular understanding of one's real spiritual nature and one's relationship to self, family, groups, humanity, all of life, the product universe, the spiritual universe, and the Supreme Being, or God.

Scientology's principles and practices, as discussed in the film, focuses on the 'thetan' or the private himself and not simply his body or his worldly ownerships. Emphasis is also given on the 'mind' and achieving spiritual flexibility, marking the use of 'auditing,' an unique practice in Scientology to free oneself from undesirable burdens that prevent one from attaining their real capacity.

The Bridge to Total Freedom
The concept of 'The Bridge to Total Freedom' is a significant highlight of the film. This metaphorical bridge is presented as the course every Scientologist should follow to enlightenment. Its stages, crafted by L. Ron Hubbard, include two parallel courses: Training and Processing. Training includes finding out Scientology principles and strategies, while Processing involves individual therapy known as 'auditing.'.

Scientology's Community and Participation
The movie also showcases the worldwide neighborhood of Scientologists participating in numerous activities, including 'auditing' sessions, courses, and gatherings, portraying a picture of a vibrant and active subscription. It emphasizes the numerous activities one can take part in and the community's shared purpose of developing a better world.

Controversy and Conclusion
Although the film presents Scientology in a welcoming light, it has given debate, mainly due to its notorious obligatory viewing within the church. Critics argue that the film makes up a form of psychological control, provided its directive that viewers must decide to join the Church of Scientology right after viewing, asserting that there is no happy medium.

Star Larry Anderson since parted ways with the church, voicing his annoyance over its practices and requesting his contributions to the film be removed - additional feeding the debate surrounding the church and the movie itself.

In conclusion, "Orientation: A Scientology Information Film" functions as an entry point for prospective brand-new members, providing information about the basic beliefs and practices of Scientology. Despite its intent to notify and bring in, the movie is similarly known for stirring controversy due to its perceived psychological pressure, and the later dissociation of its host with the Church of Scientology itself.

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