Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator (Eva Orner, 2019):USA

Reviewed by Alejandra Melchor. Viewed at  AFI Fest 2019.

Under the direction of Academy and Emmy Award winner Eva Orner, known for her work on Chasing Asylum, an insightful, intriguing, and emotional documentary film was brought to life. Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator was nominated for the Jury Award at the Philadelphia  Film Festival. The film has also been screened at the Hawaii International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, and recently at the American Film Institute Fest. The film has been screened at film festivals the last few months, and is now available on Netflix streaming service.

Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator, showcases Bikram Choudhury’s  rise to power in the yoga industry.  The film then draws back the curtain on what went on in the teacher training sessions Bikram taught. As rape and sexual harassment allegations are brought to light, the atmosphere of the film changes. From seeing all the ”great things” Bikram achieved, including what he did for others, and having empathy for him, to one of tension, anger, sadness, and disbelief at the end result.

With the help of never before seen archive footage, pictures, and intimate interviews, Eva Orner depicts Bikram’s younger life, and how he was able to build his yoga empire. Filled with confidence, as well as having a trustful and devoted followers, Bikram Yoga grew into an international phenomenon. Ordinary people, celebrities, and politicians wanted to get a taste of this nectar of life known as Bikram Yoga.  

Through interviews from people who  attended Bikrams 9 week training sessions and those close to him, we are given a new perspective into his teaching methods and personality. With a sort of godhood persona Bikram created what some might call a cult like organization. As multiple women stepped forward to accuse Bikram of rape and sexual harassment, is seemed the empire that was Bikram Yoga would soon calapse. And with it the man at the head of it all Bikram Choudhury. 

The end of the film may be interpreted as a call to action. As cases against Bikram were only tried in civil court. Despite multiple police reports no criminal charges have been brought against Bikram. 

Without Eva Orner at the helm of this film, a very different interpretation of these events may have been depicted. The editing of the film was greatly done. Use of voice overs from archive footage and interviews correlated well with footage. As well as appropriate music choices and sound effects. This documentary film is a unique masterpiece. With over 60% of the film being archive footage. Eva Orner was in my opinion highly successful in telling this story.