Banking on Heaven (2005): cast, story & where to watch

2005 · Film · ★ 9.5

Banking on Heaven poster

Released in 2005, Banking on Heaven is a documentary film directed by Dot Reidelbach, running about 90 minutes.

What it’s about. A hard-hitting documentary on the largest polygamous cult in the U.S., the Fundamentalist Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), located right on the Utah-Arizona border. This film shows how women and girls are denied education and other civil rights, and are treated as slaves who are married off to the polygamous men of the cult. It investigates the role of Warren Jeffs, Head "Prophet" of the FLDS, and offers a searing indictment of his treatment of fellow cult members. It also addresses the lack of outrage from the mainstream Mormon church as well as the government's collective failure to take care of the problems that are plaguing many polygamists caught in this web of greed and deceit. See how a small group of courageous filmmakers managed to make their way into a town which shuns outsiders--particularly ones with movie cameras--and get damning testimonials from some of the women of this cult.

How it landed. With an audience score of 9.5/10, Banking on Heaven sits among the best-reviewed titles in the catalogue.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Banking on Heaven page.

If you liked it. Fans of Banking on Heaven tend to enjoy One Direction: This Is Us, Burn the Stage: The Movie, BTS World Tour: Love Yourself - Japan Edition and Senna.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Banking on Heaven (2005)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Banking on Heaven change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Banking on Heaven worth watching?
Banking on Heaven holds an audience score of 9.5 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy documentary. Most viewers rate it highly.
When was Banking on Heaven released?
Banking on Heaven was released in 2005, with a runtime of about 90 minutes.