'Religulous' review

Bill Maher (Credit: Lionsgate)

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Comedian, talk show host and social critic Bill Maher mounts a full scale attack on organized religions—everything from Christianity to Islam to Scientology—in this globe trotting documentary/investigative report.

Big question: Does the involvement of “Borat” director Larry Charles suggest another edgy sleeper hit?

Catch it: Whether it’s an example of bravery or narcissism, Maher is resolutely unafraid of putting himself front and center in a movie that would probably piss off far more viewers than it could ever captivate. If you give him a chance, you’ll find an intelligent, witty and well-researched cynic eager to give voice to an underserved minority.

Skip it: If the film’s very concept offends you you probably haven’t even read this far, and will be sure to steer clear. As one man in the movie says, “Start disputing my God and I’m out of here.” And many people will understandably feel the same way. Then again, what are they afraid of?

Bottom line: Critics will carp that Maher is too smug, doesn’t play fair with his interview subjects and not all of his jokes hit (“What happens in Gomorrah, stays in Gomorrah,” really?). But those are all distractions from the fascinating and challenging questions posed by Maher and the film. He claims to be “promoting doubt,” but he’s also promoting some of the most provocative potential discussions spurred by a film this year.

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