Amish: A Secret Life

Amish: A Secret Life offers a rare glimpse into the private world of an Old Order Amish family in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It follows David and Miriam Lapp, who take the extraordinary step of allowing cameras into their home, despite the strict rules of their faith that prohibit photography.

The documentary provides an intimate portrait of Amish family life, faith, and traditions. It showcases the daily routines, work ethic, and religious practices that shape the Amish way of life. Through the Lapp family’s experiences, the film reveals the challenges and joys of living in a community that largely shuns modern technology and maintains a separation from mainstream society.

As the story unfolds, viewers learn about the risks the Lapp family faces by participating in the film. The potential consequences of their decision, including the possibility of excommunication from their church, highlight the tension between their desire to share their faith and the strict rules of their community.

The film also touches on the complexities within Amish society, including the differences between Old Order and New Order Amish. It sheds light on how some families, like the Lapps, navigate their faith while questioning certain aspects of their traditions.

Amish: A Secret Life goes beyond common stereotypes, presenting a nuanced picture of Amish life. It showcases the strong family bonds, the emphasis on community, and the deep-rooted faith that characterizes Amish culture. At the same time, it reveals the internal struggles and questions that some Amish individuals grapple with as they seek to reconcile their traditional lifestyle with their personal beliefs and the changing world around them.