Dark Fantasy Comedy: Spiritual Retreat
Embark on a journey into the darkly comedic world of “The Cleanse,” now streaming on Tubi, starring Johnny Galecki. This dark fantasy comedy sets out to uncover what happens when a spiritual retreat, promising change, takes a bizarre turn. “The Cleanse” explores the unexpected consequences when participants confront physical manifestations of their inner demons, challenging notions of self-revelation. News Directory 3 brings you this captivating tale that mixes humor with a deeper look at the human psyche. Follow Paul Beger adn others as they navigate this strange world.Discover what’s next …
‘The Cleanse’: Spiritual Retreat Turns Bizarre on Tubi
Updated May 1, 2025
Looking to escape and start fresh? “The Cleanse,” a 2016 film, offers a cautionary tale about spiritual retreats. What seems like a path to self-discovery quickly devolves into a bizarre confrontation with one’s inner demons, quite literally.
“The Cleanse” centers on individuals seeking change who embark on a journey of self-exploration. They soon discover they must face a tangible manifestation of their past selves in a most unusual way.

Paul Beger (Johnny Galecki), reeling from a series of setbacks, seeks a fresh start. He attends a screening for the ”Let’s Get Pure” program, where he meets Maggie Jameson (Anna Friel), a struggling actress, and a couple, Eric (Kyle Gallner) and Laurie (Diana Bang).
Paul’s honesty sets him apart during the screening.The group is chosen to attend a spiritual retreat, led by Ken Roberts (Oliver Platt), promising life-altering transformation.
At a secluded location, Lily (Anjelica Huston) initiates the retreat, instructing each participant to drink a personalized concoction. Paul, eager for change, drinks his solution and promptly becomes ill.
The next day, paul discovers that he has expelled a living creature, which he then rescues from the plumbing.
As “The Cleanse” progresses, Paul learns he’s not alone. Maggie has also birthed a creature. As Paul and Maggie bond over shared traumas and hopes, their creatures mirror their behaviors. The solution forces them to purge their negativity, which manifests as these creatures.
seeking answers,Paul and Maggie investigate the program. They are eventually told the disturbing steps required to see the program through.


“The Cleanse” offers a quirky yet insightful look at nurturing negativity. The film presents a moral dilemma: should we release our negativity or be consumed by it?
Streaming free on Tubi, “The Cleanse” may provide a fresh perspective on life’s positives and negatives.
What’s next
Viewers who enjoy “The Cleanse” may also appreciate other films that blend dark humor with themes of self-discovery and personal transformation.
