Parents' Guide to

Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown

By Stephanie Morgan, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 14+

Harrowing firsthand accounts of uniquely disturbing tragedy.

TV Hulu Reality TV 2024
Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown poster: A closeup of Jim Jones wearing dark glasses with half of his face blurred

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

courage of those who spoke out against Jim Jones, despite severe intimidation, and the resilience of survivors are highlighted as commendable traits. The series also honors the late congressman's aide who, despite being critically injured, later served as a congresswoman herself, embodying <a href=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/"/articles/what-is-perseverance">perseverance and dedication.</p> ">
  • Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown screenshot: A man in fatigues is shown waving down a military helicopter

Community Reviews

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age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

Sasha123456
Sasha123456 Parent
July 8, 2024
age 18+

I do not want my kids seeing this at all because Number one is Strong Amount of Drugs in the Documentary Poison With Needles and Cool Aid filled with Drugs Number Two Is Strong Violence And Strong Blood and Gore to because the people gets killed by a gun and bombs and bow and arrows people 18+ view this only it should be Adults Only Because this is made to much Violence To much Drugs to and Number Three Is Strong Intense Scenes including Suicide Killing people with Poison the one who killed them is Jim Norris The Biggest Devil in the whole world no kids Rated NC 17 only for me I’m a parent with Nine years old Kid I do not want my kids viewing this at all and that worse thing about it is So much Drugs So much Violence and gore and blood so much. Suicidal people with drugs and Poisonous Drugs ! And Devil References including Jim Norris !
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

CULT MASSACRE: ONE DAY IN JONESTOWN explores the tragic and harrowing events that unfolded in 1978 in Jonestown, Guyana, where over 900 members of the Peoples Temple, led by Jim Jones, died in a mass murder-suicide. Through in-depth interviews with survivors, archival footage, and expert commentary, the documentary dissects the factors leading up to the catastrophe as well as the actions of the day, debunking myths and uncovering the painful truths behind one of the largest losses of American civilian life in a non-natural disaster.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1 ):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This documentary offers profound and unsettling insight into the Jonestown tragedy, supported by poignant survivor interviews and chilling archival footage. Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown details Jim Jones' descent into madness and the heartbreak and horror experienced by those who were coerced into following him. The documentary challenges long-held misconceptions, portraying the event not as a mass suicide but as a mass murder, orchestrated through fear and manipulation. While the series somewhat glosses over the disproportionate impact of the tragedy on women and children, its thorough investigation and the emotive recounting by those who lived through the ordeal make it a crucial watch for those interested in understanding this dark chapter of history.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the impact of how history is portrayed through media. How does this documentary challenge or support what we know about Jonestown?

  • How did Jonestown reflect the social and political tensions of the 1970s? What can we learn from this tragedy about the dangers of charismatic leadership and extreme ideologies?

  • Talk about scary content, and how to make reasonable viewing choices. If your child does get frightened or upset, talk about coping strategies.

TV Details

  • Premiere date: June 17, 2024
  • Network: Hulu
  • Genre: Reality TV
  • Topics: History
  • TV rating: TV-14
  • Last updated: July 2, 2024

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