BIKRAM: YOGI, GURU, PREDATOR
The true story behind one of the world’s most influential fitness gurus, this exposé details the rise and disturbing misdeeds of disgraced yogi Bikram Choudhury.
Bikram Yoga is familiar to many, but few know the real story of the enterprising, bizarre individual who put this famously grueling form of yoga on the map and the accusations of sexual assault that have clouded his fitness empire. Eva Orner’s vital documentary untangles the myth of self-styled “Beverly Hills Yogi” Bikram Choudhury from the sobering truth, bringing vital scrutiny to a figure who continues to attract acolytes despite his controversial history. Known for teaching workshops in nothing but a skimpy speedo and Rolex, Choudhury is a fascinating character, whose loony antics, bald-faced materialism, and thirst for the spotlight grew to astronomical proportions as his business and follower base reached new heights. Through archival footage and contemporary interviews, Orner provides evidence of the cultish pull that Choudhury exerted on his adherents, many of whom saw him as both fitness guru and spiritual mentor. It was this psychological sway that allowed Choudhury to manipulate and abuse many of his followers, and Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator is both a troubling portrait of Choudhury and a timely investigation into the ways powerful figures continue to exploit their influence.
In Competition: Documentary Feature Award
PFS ON US is a free ticketing initiative that makes our programming available to all. Free tickets are available to all films in the Made in USA and Non/Fiction sections of the Festival. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations do not guarantee admission.
Admission is not guaranteed after scheduled start time.
CLICK HERE to return to the complete 28th Philadelphia Film Festival schedule.