What's Happening?
Chris Smith, a documentary filmmaker known for his work on American Movie and Netflix projects, has released a new HBO miniseries titled 'Bring Me the Beauties'. The series delves into the story of Eternal Values, a cult founded in the 1980s by Frederick
von Mierers, which primarily consisted of models. The series features interviews with Hoyt Richards, a former member and male supermodel, and explores the cult's impact on its members. The documentary uses archival footage to evoke the era's atmosphere and examines the cult's practices, which ranged from new-age philosophies to more controlling behaviors. The series aims to provide a nuanced view of the cult, highlighting varied personal experiences and the broader cultural context of the time.
Why It's Important?
The documentary sheds light on the influence of cults and charismatic leaders on individuals, particularly in the modeling industry during the 1980s and 1990s. It raises questions about susceptibility to cult-like organizations and the impact of such groups on personal and professional lives. By exploring the story of Eternal Values, the series contributes to the understanding of how cults operate and the psychological and social factors that make individuals vulnerable to their influence. This is particularly relevant in today's context, where similar dynamics can be observed in online communities and influencer culture.
