7 shows to watch if you like 'Breath of Fire'

In the world of wellness and self-discovery, Breath of Fire ignites a flame that’s both illuminating and incendiary. This HBO docuseries chronicles the life of Katie Griggs, popularly known as Guru Jagat, who became the public face of Kundalini yoga, only to have her empire vacate due to controversies and allegations.

Breath of Fire has a cast of characters that include former followers and family members as the series unpacks the tangled web of spirituality, cultural appropriation, and capitalism that defines this multi-billion-dollar industry. With shocking revelations and candor at the center, the series paints a very human picture of Jagat, seeing her as a complex figure dealing with her own demons, rather than as a guru.

For anyone intrigued by the intersection of ambition and ethics in modern spirituality, Breath of Fire is a cautionary tale wrapped in the glamour of self-invention and enlightenment.

Viewers seeking similar themes might also enjoy Wild Wild Country, which explores cult dynamics, or The Path, delving into self-help gone awry, and 5 other shows—all rich in themes of the dark side of spiritual quests and cultist events similar to Breath of Fire.

Disclaimer: This article reflects the author's opinions.

Wild Wild Country, The Path, and 5 other shows with similar themes to Breath of Fire

1) Wild Wild Country (2018)

a still from Wild Wild Country (image via Netflix)

Wild Wild Country promises to be an exhilarating experience, filled with eye-opening twists and moments of astonishment. This out-there docuseries chronicles the outrageous tale of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, a notorious guru, who, with the help of his ruthless lieutenant, Ma Anand Sheela, tried to establish a cult in the Oregon desert.

As the colorful followers clashed with the tight-knit local residents, the situation escalated into a bioterrorism and legal battle scandal that rocked the nation. Fans are stunned by the shocking twists and the raw portrayal of power struggles.

This becomes a must-watch for any fans of Breath of Fire. It combines charisma, chaos, and cultural commentary, posing tough questions about the fine line between enlightenment and exploitation within modern spirituality.

2) The Path

Delving into the complex landscape of faith and self-discovery, The Path presents a riveting narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This Hulu series follows Eddie Lane, portrayed by Aaron Paul, as he faces a profound crisis of conscience within the Meyerist Movement, a fictional religion that intertwines New Age ideals with cult-like elements.

After experiencing a transformative vision in Peru, Eddie begins to question everything he once believed, all while trying to protect his family, including his wife Sarah, played by Michelle Monaghan. Fans are drawn to the show’s intense character dynamics and moral quandaries, making it a perfect companion for those who appreciate Breath of Fire.

With its exploration of enlightenment and the darker aspects of spiritual communities, The Path challenges viewers to reflect on the intricate nature of belief in a world where devotion can easily morph into manipulation.

3) The Vow (2020)

Exploring the web of deceit and betrayal, The Vow takes a terrifying journey inside NXIVM, a self-help organization that morphed into a s*x cult. This HBO docuseries, following former members Sarah Edmondson and Mark Vicente, allows audiences to witness the meticulous layers of manipulation and control exerted by the charismatic leader, Keith Raniere.

With a gripping narrative intertwining personal testimony with shocking revelations, the raw honesty and emotional depth keep viewers captivated. The show is a fascinating exploration of how easily devotion can be exploited, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoyed Breath of Fire.

The Vow peels back the layers to reveal the dark underbelly of modern spirituality and self-development, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of belief and the fine line between guidance and coercion.

4) The Keepers (2017)

a still from The Keepers (image via Netflix)

The Keepers brings to light a painfully fascinating journey of trauma and resilience through a narratively engaging series. The docuseries follows the tragic story of Sister Catherine Cesnik, culminating in the unresolved 40-year-old mystery of her murder, and depicts a deeply disturbing system of abuse within the Catholic Church.

The brave testimonies of Jean Hargadon Wehner and Teresa Lancaster highlight the legacy of abuse by Priest A. Joseph Maskell. It has attracted praise for its emotional frankness and relentless pursuit of truth, resonating with fans of Breath of Fire.

The Keepers is nothing short of an extraordinary experience that hits home, making it a must-watch for anyone magnetically drawn to tales of personal confrontation and systemic injustice.

5) Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown

a still from Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown (image via National Geographic)

In a chilling dive into the depths of human manipulation, Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown lays bare the tragic saga of Jim Jones and his ill-fated utopia. This gripping Nat Geo docuseries chronicles the harrowing events leading up to the infamous 1978 massacre in Guyana, where 918 followers of the Peoples Temple met their end under the spell of their charismatic yet delusional leader.

Featuring poignant testimonies from survivors like Yulanda Williams and exclusive insights from Jones' son, Stephan, the series captures the eerie allure of a community that promised paradise but delivered horror.

Fans have lauded its raw storytelling and emotional weight, making it a compelling watch for those who appreciate the intense narratives of Breath of Fire, as both explore the dark side of blind faith and the quest for belonging.

6) The Synanon Fix (2024)

a still from The Synanon Fix (image via HBO Max)

Amidst the turbulent backdrop of the 1960s, The Synanon Fix uncovers the shocking transformation of a groundbreaking rehabilitation program into a notorious cult. This gripping HBO docuseries, directed by Rory Kennedy, chronicles the rise of Synanon, founded by Charles "Chuck" Dederich, where radical methods like "The Game" promised recovery but ultimately led to manipulation and abuse.

Through compelling testimonies from former members like Elena Broslovsky and Bill Goodson, the series reveals how a quest for community devolved into a nightmarish reality filled with coercion and control.

Fans are captivated by its unflinching look at human vulnerability and the seductive power of cult dynamics, making it a must-watch for those who appreciated Breath of Fire, as both delve into the complexities of belonging and the dark side of hope.

7) Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence

a still from Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence (image via Hulu)

Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence reveals a disturbing phase of college life, where a group of optimistic students fell under the spell of Larry Ray, a friend's father. This compelling series follows Ray as he infiltrates the lives of Sarah Lawrence College students, deceiving and taking advantage of them under the guise of mentorship.

With firsthand testimonies from survivors such as Talia Ray and Santos Rosario, the series depicts a terrifying experience of manipulation, blackmail, and the fight for liberation. Fans have acclaimed its honest storytelling and deep emotion, positioning it as essential viewing for those who liked Breath of Fire, as both explore the intricacies of trust and the harmful effects of placing faith in authority

These seven shows promise to deliver similarly intense narratives that explore the darker corners of human experience and the complexities of personal struggle and are a must-watch for fans of Breath of Fire.

Edited by Sreerupa Das