‘Abigail Before Beatrice’ Review – An Unsettling Look at the Psychological Impact of Being in a Cult
There are many different reasons why people join cults. Some people feel like their lives are missing something; their childhood and family life might have been dysfunctional; they’re seeking a sense of community; or they’re psychologically vulnerable. For many people, joining a cult leads to exploitation and control, and even psychological or sexual abuse, by […]
There are many different reasons why people join cults. Some people feel like their lives are missing something; their childhood and family life might have been dysfunctional; they’re seeking a sense of community; or they’re psychologically vulnerable. For many people, joining a cult leads to exploitation and control, and even psychological or sexual abuse, by the cult leader. They are forced to give up their belongings and cut ties with the people in their lives. In addition to the reasons why people join cults, there is the question of why they choose to stay in a situation that is not fulfilling their needs and instead is usually predatory.
Written and directed by Cassie Keets (Scream Therapy), Abigail Before Beatrice explores the very different experiences of two women, who meet while in a cult, and the lasting effects it has on their lives. Even though the cult has been dissolved, Beatrice (Olivia Taylor Dudley) lives a life of isolation, removed from the world, while Abigail (Riley Dandy) has moved on with her life and started a podcast about what it’s like to be a member of a cult. Concerned about her well-being after news that the leader of the cult is being released from prison, Abigail reaches out to Beatrice to reconnect with her but is met with distrust and hostility. As the two women reflect on their time in the cult, it becomes clear that Beatrice is completely disconnected from reality, culminating in an emotionally charged finale.
