Pray Away
In the 1970s, five men struggling with being gay in their Evangelical church started a bible study to help each other leave the "homosexual lifestyle." They quickly received over 25,000 letters from people asking for help and formalized as Exodus International, the largest and most controversial conversion therapy organization in the world. But leaders struggled with a secret: their own “same-sex attractions” never went away. After years as Christian superstars in the religious right, many of these men and women have come out as LGBTQ, disavowing the very movement they helped start. Focusing on the dramatic journeys of former conversion therapy leaders, current members, and a survivor, PRAY AWAY chronicles the “ex gay" movement’s rise to power, persistent influence, and the profound harm it causes.
Critics Sentiment
Michael discusses founding Exodus in the late 1970s
Documentary includes story about former trans person
The film dips significantly when introducing the confusing trans conversion storyline that reviewers felt didn't belong, then recovers as it returns to the main narrative of personal damage and testimonies.
Pray Away receives generally positive but measured reception, with critics appreciating the archival footage and personal revelations from former conversion therapy leaders. However, reviewers consistently noted the film's overly polished presentation and reluctance to fully condemn the practices, leaving many wanting stronger condemnation and more focus on survivor stories rather than leader redemption arcs.
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