“Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult,” a new Netflix documentary, delves into the controversial world of 7M, an invite-only church intertwined with a management company for TikTok dancers in Los Angeles.
Directed by Derek Doneen, the series unfolds a complex narrative that combines social media spectacle with allegations of cult-like practices.
At its core are the Wilking sisters, Miranda and Melanie, whose journey from Detroit to social media stardom serves as a poignant backdrop.
From childhood aspirations to professional dance careers buoyed by TikTok fame, their story intertwines with the rise of 7M, led by Pastor Robert Shinn.
The documentary explores how 7M, positioned as both a talent management firm and a spiritual sanctuary, attracted young dancers seeking visibility and financial stability.
For many, including former members like Kevin “Konkrete” Davis and Kailea Gray, 7M offered opportunities amid artistic struggles, leveraging their social media presence for income.
However, allegations emerge of deeper entanglements. Former members speak of pressures to devote themselves not only to artistic pursuits but also to the church’s teachings, allegedly isolating them from family and outside influences.
This narrative arc delves into familiar cult dynamics, where devotion to a charismatic leader blurs lines between personal and communal identity.
Amid interviews and personal accounts, the documentary navigates conflicting perspectives.
Shinn denies accusations of misconduct, framing 7M as a vehicle for artistic growth and spiritual fulfillment. Yet, testimonies and personal experiences depicted in the series paint a more complex and troubling picture.
The impact on families is palpable, with emotional rifts and public confrontations unfolding on social media.
The Wilking sisters’ journey, fraught with familial tensions and public scrutiny, highlights the documentary’s exploration of personal sacrifice and ideological commitment in the digital age.
As “Dancing for the Devil” unfolds, it confronts viewers with questions about identity, influence, and the boundaries between artistic ambition and spiritual manipulation.
Beyond the sensational headlines, the series offers a sobering reflection on the allure and consequences of belonging to a community that promises both fame and salvation.
The documentary’s blend of investigative journalism and personal narrative underscores its aim to shed light on a compelling yet unsettling chapter in contemporary culture, leaving audiences to ponder the fine line between aspiration and exploitation in the modern age of social media.
