Angel Studios has released a new documentary called “Live Not By Lies!” that explores the impact of totalitarianism on individual freedoms, drawing parallels between past and present. The film is based on Rod Dreher’s bestselling book and features stories from people who lived under communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Their experiences serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by oppressive governments.
The documentary highlights the struggles of Christians who faced severe consequences for standing firm in their beliefs during Soviet rule. These individuals dealt with surveillance, intimidation, and imprisonment for simply refusing to accept false ideologies. As viewers listen to their testimonies, they may recognize similar patterns in today’s society, leading to the unsettling question: how much of this is already happening in the West?
One striking example presented in the film is Isabel Vaughan-Spruce, who was arrested in Birmingham, England, for silently praying near an abortion clinic. Her only “crime” was engaging in private prayer. After being charged and later found innocent, she was arrested again for the same act. With the help of ADF International, she eventually received compensation from the police.
Another case featured is that of Adam Smith-Connor, a veteran who prayed silently in memory of his son outside an abortion facility in Bournemouth. He faced police interrogation and was ultimately convicted, leading to a hefty fine for his brief moment of prayer.
These incidents are described as early warnings about the state’s growing power to control personal beliefs. The film draws a parallel to George Orwell’s concept of “thoughtcrime,” suggesting that society is increasingly intolerant of certain beliefs. In the UK, this intolerance is manifested through “buffer zones” where specific ideologies must be suppressed.
“Live Not By Lies!” urges viewers to reclaim moral courage. It emphasizes the importance of standing firm against cultural pressures that demand conformity. The documentary reflects on the legacy of figures like Vaclav Havel and Alexander Solzhenitsyn, who resisted oppressive regimes by refusing to live a lie.
The film suggests that true resistance starts with truth-telling. It argues that citizens should not be compelled to deny their beliefs, whether about issues like the sanctity of life or the nature of marriage. The documentary warns that failing to protect this freedom could lead to a society that forgets how to speak the truth altogether.
The message of the film resonates with those who believe in the importance of aligning personal convictions with public expression. It serves as a call to action, urging individuals to stand up for their beliefs in the face of potential repercussions. As the documentary illustrates, the journey toward freedom begins with the courage to resist the pressure to conform.