“Jesus Camp” is a documentary that mostly presents its subjects as they are, focusing on the evangelical Christian community. There isn’t a heavy-handed emphasis on identity politics in casting or narrative construction, so the score remains low. However, some editing choices seem designed to evoke a certain reaction from viewers, which brings a little ideological shading into play.

The film’s tone could be interpreted as critical or subtly mocking towards traditional Christianity, religion, and the structure of religious families. It tends to frame some religious practices as outdated or concerning, which may be seen as undermining core cultural and moral traditions in the United States.

While the documentary’s primary content consists of evangelical voices, the film’s framing and interview selection seem curated to heighten controversy and promote skepticism of the religious worldview, without much genuine engagement with or defense of it. Dissenting voices exist, but are largely framed in opposition rather than as equals.