Dissecting The Master

Is the new Paul Thomas Anderson film a veiled look at Scientology?

A journalist in the Toronto International Film Festival press gallery called it the “elephant in the room.”

Is Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest film, The Master, an attempt to bring the story of the Church of Scientology to film?

Anderson remained mum on the question but says his film is not about a cult. “I don’t consider that we’re dealing with a cult.”

Check out Xtra‘s video interview for more from TIFF, as well as our discussion with activist Kate Bornstein, who talks about her involvement with Scientology.



On occasion, the number of editors and other staff who contribute to a story gets a little unwieldy to give a byline to everyone. That’s when we use “Xtra Staff” in place of the usual contributor info. If you would like more information on who contributed to a particular story, please contact us here.

Keep Reading

Xtra Explains: Parental rights

What does Canadian law actually say when it comes to the rights of parents and trans kids?

Xtra Explains: Social vs. medical transition

Media and politicians like to fixate on the medical aspects of transition. But for most trans youth, social transition plays a much bigger part in their lives

Could Canadian conservatives copy Trump’s anti-trans messaging?

The president-elect’s final ad push—and subsequent election win—may have Canada’s right looking to lean in on anti-trans messaging

Xtra Explains: Detransition

In reality, only around three percent of trans people experience some form of regret