- Network: HBO Max
- Series Premiere Date: Dec 3, 2020
Critic Reviews
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Whether you’re a true crime junkie or a casual viewer there’s plenty in Heaven’s Gate to interest you. Robert Balch and David Taylor’s accounts of going undercover into the organization are especially compelling.
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It's a thoughtfully paced series, rich in original source material and striking watercolor animations in place of reenactments. ... Where "Heaven's Gate: Cult of Cults" falls a little short is in its explanation or exploration of Applegate and Nettles' appeal. As leaders, they lack any kind of discernable charisma.
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This latest documentary series to tap into the frenzy around sex and death cults, like the NXVIM-centered “The Vow” from earlier this year, is hardly as salacious as some of its predecessors. Viewers may bob in and out during the first few episodes, though it’s worth sticking out for the grand finale, as sickening as it is oddly poignant.
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By the end of the four hours, I felt some emotional connection to the cult members and their families and that was Tweel's primary intention, I'm guessing. Getting me to feel that this exploration was ultimately especially perceptive, though, is where Heaven's Gate: The Cult of Cults falls short.