Louis Theroux’s latest documentary, The Settlers, re-examines the escalating Israeli settler population in the West Bank with candid interviews and fresh perspectives, igniting widespread discussion against a backdrop of increasing violence and political strife.
Louis Theroux’s recent documentary, The Settlers, has ignited considerable discussion on social media, thanks in large part to its candid portrayal of the Israeli settler project in the West Bank. In this film, Theroux revisits a region he first explored in 2010, a period during which the settler population has surged past 700,000 and the socio-political dynamics have deteriorated. The film features interviews with figures like Daniella Weiss, a Jewish settler who expresses unwavering support for the radical expansion of settlements, alongside Palestinian voices that reveal the daily struggles under occupation.
Despite Theroux’s knack for insightful interviews, critics argue that the documentary sometimes sidesteps the broader context of the political situation. The escalation of violence and the far-right influence in the Israeli government, particularly following the Hamas attacks in 2023 and the ensuing conflict in Gaza, create a chilling backdrop to the narratives presented. Nevertheless, Theroux’s balanced approach shines through, as he strives to include a multiplicity of perspectives, subtly illuminating the grim realities faced by Palestinians alongside the fervor of Zionist ideologies.
In contrast to the weighty themes of Theroux’s documentary, the financial strategies of high-profile couples were also explored in this week’s reading selection, particularly the marriage of Amal and George Clooney. Reports reveal the couple’s remarkable ability to communicate about their finances, a luxury not afforded to many amidst the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Many Guardian readers shared personal anecdotes underlining how financial disparities can create power imbalances within relationships. One couple famously managed to avoid merging their finances until two decades into their marriage, reflecting the complexities many face in financial discussions.
The exploration of self-discovery takes an unexpected turn with a look at a “psychic reset” bootcamp in Los Angeles. For a cost of $700, participants reportedly undergo a three-day programme aimed at emotional liberation and mental clarity. One account details a chilling moment when a participant, overwhelmed by the experience, found themselves engaged in an intense emotional release session that involved screaming at their father. This raises questions about the efficacy and appropriateness of such programmes, as participants confront deep-seated issues in an environment that can be both liberating and traumatic.
In the realm of entertainment, Henk Rogers’ fascinating account of bringing Tetris to a global audience provides an intriguing contrast to the previous stories. Rogers, who once brokered tense negotiations with Russian officials and even existed under the scrutiny of the KGB, reflects on a journey filled with challenges. However, his recent success with the Blue Planet Foundation, which advocates for Hawaii’s transition to clean energy by 2030, underscores a broader narrative of innovation and impact beyond gaming.
Rounding off the selection is an analysis of the Tesla Cybertruck, viewed as both a technical marvel and a polarising symbol. Following a tumultuous launch in 2019, the Cybertruck has garnered criticism for its design flaws and poor performance metrics despite being the top-selling electric pickup in the U.S. Its controversial aesthetic and the political associations linked to its creator, Elon Musk, have led to a mixed reception in the public sphere. Reports of vandalism and hostility from onlookers underscore the car’s status as more than just a vehicle; it epitomises a deeper societal divide.
The juxtaposition of these narratives underscores a vital discourse on privilege, identity, and innovation, all underpinned by the modern challenges of political conflict and personal relationships. As readers navigate these complex themes, they are invited not only to reflect on their own lives but also to recognise the broader societal currents that shape our world.
Reference Map
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Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/17/five-great-reads-louis-theroux-musks-cybertruck-folly-and-inside-a-psychic-reset-bootcamp – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.ft.com/content/a173319a-6e7d-4154-a59a-ef22c04dd518 – In ‘The Settlers,’ a new BBC documentary, Louis Theroux revisits the West Bank 14 years after his original film ‘The Ultra Zionists.’ Since his last visit, the Jewish settler population in the region has swelled to over 700,000, accompanied by escalating violence and displacement of Palestinians, particularly after the 2023 Hamas attacks and the subsequent Gaza war. The documentary highlights the growing influence of radical Zionist settlers supported by Israel’s far-right government and scrutinizes the worsening conditions for Palestinians under military occupation. Theroux brings his signature interviewing style to bear on controversial figures like Daniella Weiss, uncovering their zealotry and disregard for Palestinian rights. The film also includes rare Palestinian viewpoints, such as those from activist Issa Amro, detailing daily hardships faced under Israeli control. While impactful in shedding light on extremist ideologies and settler aggression, the documentary narrowly focuses on fringe individuals, missing broader political context and implications. Nonetheless, it remains a powerful exposé with faint glimmers of hope, such as Israeli peace activists aiding Palestinian farmers. It airs on April 27 on BBC2 and iPlayer.
- https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/03/cybertruck-washington-dc/682232/?utm_source=apple_news – The author describes their experience driving a Tesla Cybertruck around Washington, D.C., a vehicle widely regarded as America’s most hated car. During this experiment, the author faced relentless hostility, receiving middle fingers, insults, and even threats from passersby. The Cybertruck has become a polarizing symbol associated with Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s administration, attracting disdain from those who oppose them. Despite being a technically advanced and emissions-free vehicle, its controversial design and political associations have led to vandalism and protests against it. Sales have underperformed Musk’s predictions, and the car has faced numerous technical and quality issues. The author concludes that the Cybertruck, while innovative, has become a symbol of false promises and political division, making it unappealing for many potential buyers.
- https://time.com/7172441/wes-morrill/ – In 2023, pickups were the top three best-selling vehicles in America, despite their significant greenhouse gas emissions. The Cybertruck, launched last November, has quickly become the best-selling electric pickup in the U.S. Designed by Wes Morrill and his team at Tesla, the Cybertruck features innovative engineering to combine sports car-like handling with high utility. Key features include electronically adaptive air suspension, rear-wheel steering, and steer-by-wire technology. Despite some recalls, the Cybertruck’s popularity continues to grow, offering a towing capacity of 11,000 lbs. and a 6-ft. bed without sacrificing cab space. Tesla aims to encourage more drivers to switch from internal combustion vehicles to electric ones.
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Cybertruck – The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup truck unveiled by Tesla in 2019. Its unique design and features have sparked significant public interest and debate. As of 2024, the Cybertruck has become the top-selling electric pickup truck in the United States, with sales figures surpassing initial expectations. Despite its success, the vehicle has faced challenges, including recalls and public criticism regarding its design and performance. The Cybertruck’s introduction marks a significant shift in the automotive industry, highlighting the growing acceptance and demand for electric vehicles.
- https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/17/five-great-reads-louis-theroux-musks-cybertruck-folly-and-inside-a-psychic-reset-bootcamp – This article from The Guardian’s Australia edition presents a selection of five notable reads. The first focuses on Louis Theroux’s recent documentary, ‘The Settlers,’ which delves into the complexities of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The second piece explores the financial dynamics between Amal and George Clooney, shedding light on their approach to managing wealth within their marriage. The third article investigates a ‘psychic reset’ bootcamp, examining its methods and the experiences of participants. The fourth read delves into the story of Henk Rogers, the man behind the global spread of the game Tetris. The fifth piece critiques Tesla’s Cybertruck, discussing its market reception and the challenges it faces in the automotive industry.
- https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/may/17/five-great-reads-louis-theroux-musks-cybertruck-folly-and-inside-a-psychic-reset-bootcamp – This article from The Guardian’s Australia edition presents a selection of five notable reads. The first focuses on Louis Theroux’s recent documentary, ‘The Settlers,’ which delves into the complexities of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. The second piece explores the financial dynamics between Amal and George Clooney, shedding light on their approach to managing wealth within their marriage. The third article investigates a ‘psychic reset’ bootcamp, examining its methods and the experiences of participants. The fourth read delves into the story of Henk Rogers, the man behind the global spread of the game Tetris. The fifth piece critiques Tesla’s Cybertruck, discussing its market reception and the challenges it faces in the automotive industry.
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative references current events like Louis Theroux’s documentary and recent political developments, indicating it is up-to-date.
Quotes check
Score:
0
Notes:
No direct quotes were found in the provided text to verify.
Source reliability
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative originates from The Guardian, a well-known reputable publication, although it does not cite specific external sources for its analyses.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims appear plausible, discussing well-known figures and subjects like Louis Theroux and Elon Musk. However, the efficacy of the psychic reset bootcamp is not verified.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative appears to be current and well-researched, with a reputable source. It discusses contemporary themes and figures, although some claims, like the bootcamp’s efficacy, cannot be fully verified.
