In VICE News’ latest documentary, “Indigo Children,” investigative journalist Gavin Haynes explores the fascinating world of a small community of individuals who believe they possess mystical powers beyond human comprehension. The film investigates the claims of these individuals, referred to as “Indigo Children,” while also examining the medical community’s position that these individuals suffer from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The Indigo Children community began in the 1970s when individuals were identified by an indigo-colored aura surrounding them. These individuals believe they are astral beings placed on Earth to help humanity reach its higher purpose and spread beauty and grace throughout the world. They claim to have psychic and healing abilities and a strong spiritual inner core.
Haynes immerses himself in the movement, attending their meetings and visiting various members of the community. He has his past lives read by a leading figure in the movement, visits a mother and daughter who run a holistic dentistry practice, and even attends a concert performed by a rap group whose music reflects the pursuits of the Indigo Children community.
Despite their unconventional beliefs, the subjects come across as congenial, thoughtful, and confident in themselves. Haynes’ humor and skepticism keep the documentary from devolving into a simple advocacy piece for the movement.
However, the medical community takes a starkly different view of Indigo Children. Haynes speaks with a clinical psychologist who urges these individuals to pay heed to the mental illness that exists beneath their mystical facade. The medical community diagnoses these individuals with ADHD, and argues that their avoidance of proper treatment has only deepened their fall into mental disrepair and delusion. The doctor also discusses the role of their family members in furthering a destructive way of thinking for their children.
“Indigo Children” takes a brief journey that is sometimes wacky, but always thought-provoking. It exposes the oftentimes thin line between gifted and afflicted. The documentary asks audiences to consider the possibility that mystical experiences are not necessarily indicative of spiritual or psychological health, but may be a sign of deeper issues that need to be addressed.
In the end, “Indigo Children” is a fascinating exploration of a community with deeply-held beliefs, but also a cautionary tale about the risks of eschewing modern medical practices in favor of untested or unproven remedies. The documentary is sure to provoke thoughtful discussion about the intersection of spirituality, psychology, and modern medicine.
In conclusion, “Indigo Children” is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that explores the mystical world of a small community of individuals who believe they possess extraordinary powers. It challenges viewers to consider the often-tenuous line between giftedness and mental illness, while also exposing the dangers of eschewing modern medical practices in favor of untested remedies.