Los Angeles in the 1970s was an era of many self-styled spiritual groups and communes. One of the most visible was based around the popular, celebrity-filled, Sunset Strip vegetarian restaurant, The Source. Owner Jim Baker was a former karate champion, World War II vet, and ex-con with a knack for the hospitality business. Once he underwent a spiritual transformation and became “Father Yod,” he also showed a knack for gaining followers. Baker staffed The Source with members of his spiritual community. Many of them lived together in a rented Los Feliz mansion.
The new documentary, “The Source Family,” tells the story of a man who saw himself first as a guru, then as God, and, finally, as a very flawed man. Members of the commune are interviewed about what drew them to the Family. It’s a look back at an L. A. decade unlike any other. What was the appeal of commune living? Why couldn’t it sustain?
Guests:
Isis Aquarian, Source Family member
Electricity Aquarian, Source Family member
Jodi Willie, director of The Source Family