The Most Hated Family in America (2007) (TV)

User Rating:

8.3/10   

Director:

Geoffrey O'Connor

Writer:

Louis Theroux (written by)

Release Date:

1 April 2007 (UK)

Genre:

Documentary

Tagline:

Louis struggles to come to terms with the infamous family who picket the funerals of soldiers in protest against an America that tolerates homosexuality.

Plot Keywords:

Homophobia | Homosexual | Religious Teen | Sexual Discrimination | Intolerance

Cast

Louis Theroux	...	Himself - Presenter
rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Steve Drain	...	Himself
Fred Phelps	...	Himself
Jael Phelps	...	Herself
Megan Phelps-Roper	...	Herself
Rebekah Phelps-Roper	...	Herself (as Bekah Phelps-Roper)
Shirley Phelps-Roper	...	Herself

Runtime:

60 min

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Stereo

Filming Locations:

Topeka, Kansas, USA

Company:

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Quotes:

Fred Phelps: [preaching] It's almost 18 months now and the siege's got people eating their babies. And their small children. And each other! You're gonna EAT YOUR BABIES!

Movie Connections:

References Fred: The Movie (2000)

Funny at times, yes, but still difficult to watch without anger

Originally, due to a deep and endless hatred of Fred Phelps and his congregation, I didn't think I would be able to watch this film without punching a hole through the TV or tearing my hair from my head. But, I was in a good mood (which I increased more by a few pints of Boddington's), so I figured I should give it a watch and see if I can get through it.

Funnily enough, I don't think I even needed a mood boost. While, yes, the Phelps are a truly despicable and condemnable family and Fred Phelps is one of the few men that I would personally no problem wishing death upon, British journalist Louis Theroux presents these horrible people in such a way that seamlessly blends their disgusting hatred with some smooth and hilarious humour.

Regardless of the humour and comedy that is sewn into the film, it is difficult to watch (especially to those who vary from their opinions. . . which is about 99.8% of people I've met) and takes some self-control to handle the issues. Theroux does a fantastic job of fairly allowing the Phelps family to speak their minds about the issues without seeming smug or mean, and makes it clear that while is obviously against their message, he wants them to have a fair chance to express themselves.

To anyone looking for an interesting documentary, regardless of your views, I highly suggest this one.

Final Verdict: 9/10

-AP3-