Renowned for her exceptional interviewing skills, Rory Kennedy fascinates audiences with her new project – HBO's four-part series, "The Synanon Fix". Kennedy's ability to evoke candid responses from former members of the notorious self-help group Synanon is startling. Their openness about their time in the organization, coupled with their frank descriptions of how the well-intentioned group descended into darkness under the leadership of Chuck Dederich, form crucial aspects of Kennedy's narrative.
Despite the series feeling drawn out, the wealth of implausible stories shared by survivors provides nuanced reflections on the problematic nature of Synanon. Many of its members continue to perceive the origins of the organization positively, crediting it for their survival. Yet, the negative facets underlying the Synanon's approach to sobriety are revealed as early as the first episode. Through aggressive attack therapy known as the "game", Synanon ingrained a flawed power dynamic which eventually led to Dederich's increasing control over its members.
Kennedy's series illustrates how easily manipulation and brainwashing can permeate self-help programs. Towards the end of Synanon, the group had devolved into violent practices, enmeshing its members in a maelodrama of partner swapping, child abuse, and alleged murder attempts. Despite the disturbing trajectory of Synanon's power structures, Kennedy's interviewees are surprisingly forgiving in their judgment of the organization. Their recounting of the horrors they witnessed is overlaid with a consistent theme of community, survival, and mutual support.
Interestingly, despite the evidence of manipulation, these survivors often don't express the expected anger or resentment. Instead, they view the horrific experiences they underwent as a necessary price for the community that rescued them. Although a compact feature film might have delivered a more powerful punch and quicker pace, the extensive depth and brutal honesty unveiled by Kennedy warrants watching. "The Synanon Fix" serves as a chilling reminder of how easily human behavior can be manipulated in the name of rehabilitation or self-help, and how easily a cult can be formed when leaders convince their members it's in their best interest. The series is set to premiere on HBO on April 1st.
