“Jesus Camp” is an intriguing documentary and a very controversial one. It’s about an Evangelical Christian camp for children; the film makes no real comment on whether it is right or wrong but left a division among American audiences.

The film followers various children at a Christian camp. There’s a lot of discussion about devoting one’s self to God and engagement with the community although some may view what is happening here is right-wing and bigoted indoctrination of children. As the film progresses we see the children become more and more involved with the camp and its leaders and outsiders worry that there is a political motivation behind it all.

Some of the camp leaders are fairly extreme but I guess the film really highlights the difference between radicals of different faiths at this point in time because the most radical thing these people seem to want the kids at this camp to do is to out evolution from public schools. I’m not sure whether the kids are benefitting or not because although there are many shots of them crying during some of the prayers and events at the camp, they seem to be building confidence and really engaging with one another.

I think “Jesus Camp” is a decent documentary film whether or not you agree with the practices in the film. I would have liked a little more detail here and there as the film seems to be over rather quickly. Now parts of “Jesus Camp” made me laugh as they seemed a little bizarre and quirky but other parts of it showed me that behind some of the silliness, there’s a genuine message of togetherness… whether or not that togetherness can be perverted and misused is another issue. Love what’s going on in this film or hate it, “Jesus Camp” will surely keep you talking.