The Natural State
“He offered nothing. She risked everything.”
Synopsis
In 1989, Julie Thayer, a wealthy mother from New York City, went to the Swiss Alps to have her ego destroyed. The man she chose for the job was U.G. Krishnamurti, a radical Indian anti-guru who refused followers, refused donations, and told everyone who came to him to go away. Julie stayed — and filmed everything. The Natural State is built from that archive, hundreds of hours unseen for decades, and from the private journals Julie kept as U.G.'s psychological "blasting" carried her from states of ecstasy to the brink of devastation.
Release History & Theatrical Window
Telluride Film Festival
Festival / Special Debut
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- Matthew Dougherty
- Original Score
- Matthew Dougherty
- Original Title
- The Natural State
- Spoken Languages
- English, Telugu, Italian
- Runtime
- 1h 40m
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
Matthew Dougherty
Matthew Dougherty
Robin Schwartz, Matthew Dougherty
Jane Campion, Mahesh Bhatt, Matthew Dougherty, Robin Schwartz, Keith Wilson
Department Leadership Roster
Matthew Dougherty
Director
Robin Schwartz
Editor
Matthew Dougherty
Editor
Matthew Dougherty
Producer
Robin Schwartz
Producer
Matthew Dougherty
Original Music Composer
Keith Wilson
Producer
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Natural State.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Natural State
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is The Natural State about?
In 1989, Julie Thayer, a wealthy mother from New York City, went to the Swiss Alps to have her ego destroyed. The man she chose for the job was U.G. Krishnamurti, a radical Indian anti-guru who refused followers, refused donations, and told everyone who came to him to go away. Julie stayed — and filmed everything. The Natural State is built from that archive, hundreds of hours unseen for decades, and from the private journals Julie kept as U.G.'s psychological "blasting" carried her from states of ecstasy to the brink of devastation.
Who directed The Natural State?
The Natural State was directed by Matthew Dougherty.
Who stars in The Natural State?
The principal cast of The Natural State includes Not specified.
When was The Natural State released and how long is it?
The Natural State was released in 2026 with a total runtime of 1h 40m.
Who composed the musical score for The Natural State?
The original motion picture soundtrack for The Natural State was composed by Matthew Dougherty.