Watch The Amish Shunned

The Amish Shunned is a heart-wrenching and captivating documentary film that explores the life of Amish people who have been shunned by their community due to a range of offenses, including adultery, leaving the faith, or disobeying church laws. Released in 2012, this film takes a deep dive into the complex world of the Amish, a community that has always been surrounded by mystique and secrecy.

Directed by Callie Wiser, the documentary features interviews with several ex-Amish men and women who have been forced to leave their families and communities behind after being shunned. These individuals share their heart-rending stories of the painful consequences of disobedience and the long-lasting effects of shunning on their lives.

The film is anchored by the story of Mose Gingerich, who left the Amish community when he was just 16 years old, after being shunned for questioning the church's rules. Mose is now a successful entrepreneur, but his past as a shunned Amish weighs heavily on him. Despite his success, he continues to struggle with the trauma of his past, which has left him feeling isolated and alone.

The movie also introduces us to other Amish people who have suffered the same fate as Mose. We meet Esther, a young woman who was shunned after she became too close to a non-Amish man. Her story reflects the strict attitudes towards dating and marriage among the Amish, where are forbidden from dating or marrying outside the community. The documentary also introduces viewers to Sam, a man who left the community due to his struggle with addiction.

One of the film’s most significant strengths is the way it sheds light on the Amish community's shunning practices. Although shunning is common practice among the Amish, it is rarely talked or written about. Through in-depth interviews with those who have suffered the consequences of being shunned, the film provides an insiders' look into this painful practice. It delves into the reasons why the Amish continue to shun their , even in the face of changing times and attitudes.

The Amish Shunned also takes viewers on a journey through the beauty and simplicity of Amish life. Through stunning cinematography, the film paints a vivid picture of the Amish lifestyle, which is built around the principles of hard work, simplicity, and community. At the same time, it shows the dark side of this community, which is rooted in strict rules, isolation, and repression of individual expression.

The documentary film is a moving depiction of a world that is often closed off to outsiders. Through the personal stories of those who have experienced shunning, the film encourages comion and understanding towards the Amish community. It highlights the importance of empathy and connection, even in situations where differences in beliefs and lifestyles seem insurmountable.

Overall, The Amish Shunned is an excellent documentary that provides a window into a fascinating world that is shrouded in mystery. Through its sensitive and evocative storytelling, it highlights the complexities and nuances of Amish life, while illuminating the painful consequences of shunning. It is a captivating and thought-provoking film that invites viewers to reflect on the importance of human connection and empathy.

The Amish Shunned is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.