Freaky yet fascinating, there’s no cut-and-dry definition of a cult. Most agree, however, that a charismatic leader, unwavering loyalty and isolation from society are common characteristics of these groups (extreme beliefs, psychological and emotional manipulation, and exploitation are a few more). Oh, and they’re also seriously sinister, which perhaps explains why so many filmmakers have chosen to make cults their subject.
From movies about the star-studded Church of Scientology and documentaries dedicated to the bizarre and tragic Jonestown Massacre to fictional horror flicks about Satanic worship, here’s our list of the very best movies and TV shows about cults for your viewing pleasure (or horror, as it were).