I came into this documentary not knowing anything of the subject matter and came out respecting an artform I didn't even know existed at this level. This documentary does not take a superficial look at the artform, but really reflects the discipline needed to sustain it after so many generations.
This documentary really does the artform a service and shows the emotional diligence these wood carvers endure bother internally through themselves and externally through their masters. That really transcends what could otherwise have been a surface level look at this subject matter as I found myself emotionally invested in what these carvers were striving for; this is what I think audiences can engage with, and the documentary does so well in telling.
There are some really great moments of humanity at its best and most ardent in work ethic. Something that is sorely needed in a world of seeming disarray. I loved the moment with the drunken monk as it was such a counterpoint to all the virtue portrayed in the film. It was a vice for sure but not detrimentally shown. Very humorous--touching even--to see. Just another example of the respect the film takes on its subject matter and the respect the community has with itself.
The care and craft really comes through in construction of this documentary. It is as respectable in it of itself as it is respectful to its subject matter. The patience and discipline needed to make this film is immeasurable and is something to be admired. Bravo!