My impression of this film was that of biblical/morality play with insight into human nature and relationship patterns of family and neighbors. These things haven't changed for thousands of years. It's always the same story we're telling just with different costumes and sets. Kevin Kline, Joan Allen, Christina Ricci, Elijah Wood, wow!!! Ang Lee the director. wow!!! This film is definitely worthwhile seeing. And, my advice is this, if you're not into it, wait until the time is right to watch it. Don't judge a film based on a forced viewing. I'd even be tempted to order the book and read it. The performances are chilling. I especially loved the ending.
Reviews
6 Reviews
The Reckoning
(2003)
A True Masterpiece, The Reckoning, a morality play for today
26 September 2005
I don't know what to mention first, the acting, music score, the costumes, the pace, the dialogue, direction, the plot, the cinematography. I am in awe. I can only imagine how it must have felt to have been involved in the making of this true work of art. It's a privilege to watch it. Every beat, every glimpse and especially the Orchestral background music which enhances and potentiates the other artistic elements. This is a play to be considered a classic and one to study for many, many years to come. From the 1300's the evolution of the play from Bible stories to drama which depict or portray real life and human characteristics and foibles, this is not only a morality play but a portrait of the evolution and art of drama. This play also demonstrates the power of the people of a place to change the status quo. The power in the end lies not with evil but in Truth. And, by the way while I'm on the subject? I'm totally flabbergasted and ashamed of the designation of R rating for this true work of art. This huge mistake just shows that as a people, we, in the USA feel that it's better to have our children watch violence and bloodshed, but true human portrayals which may include some minor sex is off limits. This masterpiece which contains true Good, Christian and other Religious Good Values we have rated "R". Good job.
Travelers and Magicians
(2003)
Love vs. Lust
29 January 2005
Love versus Lust... All of the actors were chosen from local Bhutanese people. The inner stories are the most fascinating. An inspiration to all. To young people hoping and dreaming for the material world's "gifts". To Westerners who have never imagined or seen the beauty and rich culture of Bhutan. Just be patient, for this movie will lead you on a journey which you could never imagine..... I learned new perspectives about Hope and Love. The stories don't follow the Hollywood model of the acts. But, for me this storytelling method is more like that of the fable, fairytale or morality tale like Eric Roehmer's Morality Tales. For me, this is a much more enriching art form. It's not your typical Hollywood movie, thanks.
Words of My Perfect Teacher
(2003)
A World Within A World
17 October 2004
If you pay attention, you might discover the answers you've been searching for to the ultimate questions. Have you ever wondered what causes suffering? or what is the path to happiness? Well, it's all here. But, the question is, can you see your own eyelashes? This is a rare opportunity to spend time with a Buddhist Master who has no qualms about revealing secrets that many have spent lifetimes searching for.
Other reviewers of the film have found some characters in this film irritating, but perhaps they were seeing themselves in it, and it was too difficult for them to accept. Sometimes it's hardest to have compassion for ourselves, to build the confidence to walk out of our own ignorance.
One bit which I found lacking was the one sided view offered of Steven Seagal. And, the transitioning around his segment which "subtlely inferred doubt and a negative view". This is just my preference for the Verite style over that of Documentary. That's all...
Other reviewers of the film have found some characters in this film irritating, but perhaps they were seeing themselves in it, and it was too difficult for them to accept. Sometimes it's hardest to have compassion for ourselves, to build the confidence to walk out of our own ignorance.
One bit which I found lacking was the one sided view offered of Steven Seagal. And, the transitioning around his segment which "subtlely inferred doubt and a negative view". This is just my preference for the Verite style over that of Documentary. That's all...
An enhanced trailer or mini movie about "KUNDUN"
1 February 2003
There was an additional dvd with the PAL version of KUNDUN and it contained the trailers and a mini documentary of the filming of the movie KUNDUN, along with interviews with Martin Scorcese and the cast. There was footage from an all together differnet perspective - shot while the film was being shot - of the scenes being shot which offers a unique and enlightening perspective, especially for those interested in the craft of film making. But, the "A la Rechercher de KUNDUN avec Martin Scorcese" was more background into the making of the film. Subtitles on the disc are in Danish and French, so I'm not too sure. This DVD contains several features besides the ones mentioned here.
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