No Greater Law

No Greater Law is a poignant and provocative documentary film released in 2018 by director Tom Dumican. It is an A&E IndieFilms and Vice Studios production, which expertly explores the collision between religious liberty and state power, freedom of faith, and the protection of children within a community in Idaho.

The title "No Greater Law" is taken from a verse in the Bible that says "The blood of Jesus Christ, his son, cleanses us from all sin." There is "no greater law" than this divine decree, according to the group the story is focused on. The film delves into the practices and ideologies of a religious faction known as the Followers of Christ, a group known for its staunch faith-healing beliefs and practices. They staunchly believe in the power of prayer, faith, and laying of hands in place of traditional medicine, which makes them subjects of debate and controversy.

The narrative of No Greater Law centers on the state of Idaho as the setting, one of six American states that also allows a religious defense against charges of neglect and manslaughter of children, a provision that was initiated in an era of very different religious concerns but that now protects an array of faith-healing groups.

The film introduces a powerful set of characters including members from the community, whistleblowers, and legislators who fall on both sides of the debate, capturing their candid thoughts and opinions about their faith and lifestyle. The documentary seeks a deeper understanding of the anti-government sentiments that fuel the group's resistance to medical intervention.

One of the central figures is an active follower, Dan Sevy, who looms large with his faith strong and an unwavering adherence to the sect’s beliefs, with steadfast belief that it is God’s will that governs life and death. The film captures Sevy's dominant charisma as well as his softer side, as a caring father of a large, loving family.

At the same time, No Greater Law doesn't shy away from engaging with those outside the community who are determined to change Idaho's laws and challenge the community's practices. We meet ex-members like Linda Martin, who has experienced tragic losses within her family, and are compelled to move past their faith as they witness the preventable infant deaths caused by lack of medical attention.

Director Dumican does an excellent job of creating an intimate atmosphere by allowing each side to present their viewpoints without interference, providing a platform for dialogue, doubt, and understanding. Meanwhile, the documentary style used here is observational, tracking its participants while the camera gracefully dips in and out of this insulated world, effectively capturing the mundaneness, extraordinary beliefs, and the beauty of the Idaho landscape.

Political aspects come into light as the film maneuvers through the passage of laws and rules that could change the dynamics of the religious group’s practices. Idaho legislators are also spotlighted, revealing a state assembly genuinely divided by competing responsibilities: to protect the faith of its citizens and the children at risk in such communities.

One distinguishing feature of No Greater Law is its excellent balance in representation, giving audience an opportunity to view the situation from various perspectives. It unwaveringly shines a light on this controversial and troubling issue without allowing bias to seep in. It is a fine exploration of a complex, and hot-button, but under-publicized concern that affects individuals and communities.

The film scrutinizes the blurry boundaries between religious freedoms and child endangerment, forcing viewers to think, question, and opine on the matter at hand. It's a thought-provoking piece that aims to spark conversations and raise questions related to religious freedom, parental rights, and the role of government.

No Greater Law, at its core, is a thought-provoking, heart-wrenching tale about faith, freedom, loyalty, and the perennial debate between state authority and religious liberty. It's a rare chance to see into a community that shuns publicity, and gives the audience a firsthand look at the beliefs and practices of a group of people who place "no greater law" above their faith.