France5 doc on Scientology may be the best film on the subject since 'Going Clear'

The new documentary from the French network offers a fresh look at the controversial church.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new documentary on Scientology that aired on the French network France5 is being praised as one of the best films on the subject since the 2015 HBO documentary "Going Clear." The film features a compelling retelling of the church's creation story involving the alien figure Xenu, which the director says is the best depiction of that story since "Going Clear." The documentary provides an in-depth look at Scientology's practices and controversies.

Why it matters

Scientology has long been a subject of intense media scrutiny, with filmmakers and journalists attempting to shed light on the secretive and controversial church. This new French documentary adds a fresh perspective to the ongoing examination of Scientology and its impact, particularly in the wake of high-profile defections and legal battles involving the organization.

The details

The France5 documentary delves into Scientology's creation story, including a detailed retelling of the Xenu narrative that was first explored in the 2015 HBO film "Going Clear." The director is praised for capturing this esoteric aspect of Scientology theology in a compelling and accessible way. The film also examines other controversial Scientology practices, such as the use of "auditing" and the church's treatment of dissenters.

  • The France5 documentary aired on February 15, 2026.

The players

France5

A major French television network that produced the documentary on Scientology.

"Going Clear"

The 2015 HBO documentary that previously provided one of the best depictions of Scientology's creation story and inner workings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We especially dug the Xenu sequence, the best since Alex Gibney's HBO movie 'Going Clear' and its OT 3 telling in 2015.”

— Alex Barnes-Ross (tonyortega.org)

The takeaway

This new French documentary on Scientology adds an important international perspective to the ongoing examination of the controversial church, providing a fresh look at its beliefs and practices that builds upon previous high-profile investigations like "Going Clear." The film's compelling retelling of Scientology's creation story is seen as a particular highlight, further illuminating this esoteric aspect of the church's theology.