Top 13 Buddhist Films You Should Watch - Mytour.vn

"Guanyin" is derived from the Sanskrit meaning "The One Who Hears the Sounds of the World". This revered Bodhisattva embodies the compassion of all Buddhas, with 12 great vows dedicated to observing, contemplating, and responding to the world's suffering to help all sentient beings across the ten directions of the universe. As described in the Lotus Sutra, Guanyin's name reflects the Bodhisattva's compassionate vow to rescue those in distress; whenever a being faces hardship, calling upon Guanyin’s name brings immediate relief. The series, originally titled 'Guanyin Bodhisattva', is a 26-episode Chinese drama released in 2005. It explores the teachings of Venerable Master Jingyuan, emphasizing that Guanyin has countless incarnations, and that by nurturing good thoughts, anyone can embody the spirit of Guanyin. The series features standalone episodes with titles like Miraculous Encounters with Guanyin, Guanyin and the Fisherman, Guanyin the Elder Mother.

The film blends real-life folk tales, focusing on themes such as the deep bond of motherhood, overcoming greed and the pursuit of fame, the transformation from evil to good, and the importance of repentance to live a better life. It highlights the immutable law of Cause and Effect, and especially praises the sacred and priceless love between mother and child, as well as the virtues of sincerity, purity, and kindness—qualities that Guanyin Bodhisattva aims to impart to humanity.

For anyone passionate about Buddhist cinema, this classic is a must-watch, offering valuable lessons on ethics and self-reflection. The film reminds us that the Law of Cause and Effect does not discriminate and encourages us to live in accordance with the natural order, practicing kindness and accumulating merit to lead a life worthy of the Buddha's teachings: 'Human life is hard to come by, and hearing the Dharma is rare.'

Watch here: https://sachphat.net/phim-bo-tat-la-ai

As part of the 'Golden Lotus Fragrance' project by the Vietnamese Buddhist film production company Sen Viet, 'Towards the Sun' is a feature film directed by Nguyen Van Diep, with Lâm Ánh Ngọc as the screenwriter. The main cast includes Thanh Long, Minh Hưng, Kim Thông, Quý Ân, and Thanh Hồng. The film tells the true story of the late Venerable Thích Trí Tịnh, the First Vice Patriarch and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. He was an exceptional practitioner of Pure Land Buddhism, a revered monk, a guiding light in modern Vietnamese Buddhist scholarship, and a major translator of Buddhist scriptures into Vietnamese. His translations of important texts such as the Lotus Sutra, Avatamsaka Sutra, and Kṣitigarbha Sutra are treasured resources for practitioners, both monastic and lay.

The film is set in the 1930s and portrays the life of Bình (the lay name of Thích Trí Tịnh), from his childhood at the age of 5 to his ordination as a monk. Growing up in a poor, troubled family marked by tensions with his sister-in-law, Bình witnessed the cruelty of humans and the slaughter of animals. These experiences led him to seek a path to true happiness. He asked many questions about life and existence until he encountered the teachings of the Buddha, which offered him answers and a foundation for spiritual refuge. This sparked a deep faith in him, leading him to leave his worldly attachments and pursue monastic life at Mount Cấm in An Giang Province. Bình later took the monastic name Thích Trí Tịnh.

'Towards the Sun' is an epic narrative of resilience and determination, focusing on Bình's journey to liberation and enlightenment, despite the numerous challenges he faced. It serves as an inspiring message for those seeking wisdom and ultimate happiness, symbolized by Bình's beautiful qualities, deep thinking, and boundless compassion. His story encourages respect for all forms of life and fosters kindness and compassion towards all beings, exemplifying the Bodhisattva’s universal love for the world.

Director Văn Diep shared that the film is not only a cinematic project but also a tribute to the leaders who have guided Vietnamese Buddhism. These individuals serve as shining examples for monks, nuns, and practitioners to follow. The film is the product of the immense merit of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, with a team of esteemed advisors, including HT Thích Trí Quảng, Vice Patriarch of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, and HT Thích Thiện Nhơn, President of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yiy-SKCxzmM

The film, also known in Vietnamese as 'Escaping the Cycle of Mundane Life' and in English as 'Continued Fate of Love', with the original title 'Reincarnated Love' (Love Reincarnates Across Lifetimes), is a 33-episode historical drama based on the novel 'The Story of Ngọc Lâm Quốc Sư' by Master Tinh Vân. Directed by Câu Phong and filmed at the famous Phật Quang Sơn Temple in Taiwan, the film was first released in Hong Kong and Taiwan in 1994 before spreading across other countries and being made available on YouTube.

This unique film tells the extraordinary tale of a love that transcends time, spanning two major dynasties, Tang and Qing, over 800 years. It portrays the tragic, deeply emotional, and captivating journey of Ngọc Lâm, a real historical figure who was a Buddhist monk in the early Qing dynasty before becoming a National Teacher. The film follows the complicated love story between the beautiful daughter of a wealthy family and Ngọc Lâm, a handsome monk. Their love spans lifetimes, overcoming obstacles and heartbreak, with the plot unfolding in a clear and engaging way from start to finish, keeping viewers hooked.

Above all, the film carries a profound philosophical and humanistic message about letting go of attachment, pride, and selfish love—elements that bring us suffering—and awakening to true happiness through wisdom and compassion. Whether you have loved, are loving, or have yet to experience love, watching this film will offer valuable insights. This is one of the most meaningful and classic Buddhist films that everyone should see.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2crEvpATGDQ

This is a famous 3D animated film produced by Alcoo Entertainment in China in 2008, with Master Hải Đào (Taiwan) as the producer, A Mang as the screenwriter and executive director, and directors Lư Hằng Vũ and Lý Chu Khiết. The film was first broadcast on Taiwan’s Life Channel before being widely shared across multiple media outlets for many years, receiving enthusiastic praise from all Buddhist practitioners, both monastic and lay.

The film is based entirely on the teachings of the Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva Sutra, one of the most important texts for people living in the Dharma-ending age. It explains the karmic consequences of both intentional and unintentional actions and provides insight into why we experience suffering and hardship in our current lives. More importantly, this sutra teaches how to clear negative karma, eliminate sins, and avoid the Three Evil Paths, especially the terrifying Avīci Hell. A particularly touching part of the film is the story of Bodhisattva Kṣitigarbha’s great filial devotion, where he makes a vow to save his mother from the intense suffering in hell caused by her grave transgressions, including blaspheming the Triple Gem and engaging in acts of killing.

Karma, Great Compassionate Vows, Filial Piety... these core values permeate the film. It highlights the most noble moral virtues of humanity, offering an opportunity to learn about the immense merit of reciting the Kṣitigarbha Sutra and chanting the Bodhisattva’s name, along with the names of other Buddhas. Those who possess great merit and wisdom will surely appreciate this film, while those experiencing suffering, delusion, and affliction will benefit from watching it, learning how to avoid sin, cultivate virtue, and cherish their parents to resolve past karmic debts and alleviating their suffering.

The visual and audio quality of the film is outstanding, demonstrating the creator’s boundless creativity while remaining faithful to the essence of the sutra. This allows the film to present a vibrant and engaging version of the

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNp3NcEAdfw

'Seven Years in Tibet' is one of the most impactful Buddhist films directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud. Released in 1997, the film offers audiences a glimpse into the biographical story of Heinrich Harrer, an Austrian mountaineer, and his life during and after World War II. The film, which is based on Harrer’s memoir written in 1952, details his fascinating experiences in Tibet from 1939 to 1951.

In addition to Harrer's personal journey, the film also sheds light on the life of the 14th Dalai Lama, a spiritual leader revered in Tibet as an incarnation of the Bodhisattva. Becoming a living Buddha requires extraordinary wisdom, a unique physical form, profound spiritual practice, and a special connection to the Dharma. At the time of the events depicted in the film, the Dalai Lama was just a 10-year-old boy, intelligent, curious, and eager to understand the world, with dreams of conquering it, far from being constrained by traditional rules.

The film follows the story of Heinrich Harrer, an accomplished Austrian mountaineer. In the summer of 1939, as Nazi Germany invaded Austria, Harrer, along with a German expedition team, set out to conquer Nanga Parbat, a peak in the Himalayas. Despite his deep hatred for the Nazi regime, Harrer participated in the expedition, as it was the only way to pursue his lifelong dream. However, during this time, he received heartbreaking news that his wife had divorced him and married his best friend. How would Heinrich cope with this shock while continuing his perilous journey? Watch 'Seven Years in Tibet' to discover his emotional and physical trials!

Watch here: https://fsharetv.me/watch/seven-years-in-tibet-episode-1-tt0120102

'Walk with Me,' a powerful documentary film, follows the life and teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and the monastic community of Plum Village. Also known as 'Bước chân an lạc' in Vietnamese, this documentary was crafted over three years in an unconventional, spontaneous manner, without strict adherence to typical filmmaking rules. The narration is based on Thich Nhat Hanh's book 'The Path of Mindfulness,' with Benedict Cumberbatch providing the voiceover. Thich Nhat Hanh is a renowned Vietnamese Zen master, poet, author, and cultural figure who has made significant contributions to the development of Zen Buddhism, particularly in the West. His influence in global Buddhism is second only to the Dalai Lama.

Throughout his life, Thich Nhat Hanh has produced countless writings on Zen and related topics, helping to spread Buddhist teachings worldwide. His particular contribution was transforming Zen into an accessible and practical art form that enhances everyday life. His unique approach, known as 'Engaged Buddhism,' emphasizes living fully in the present moment, practicing mindfulness with every breath and every step, and cultivating compassion and awareness.

The film chronicles an unplanned journey into the meditative lives of monks and nuns in Plum Village, France. The monastics, who have chosen to leave behind material pursuits to follow the Buddhist path, practice meditation, contemplation, and mindfulness in the hopes of attaining inner peace and compassion. The energy from Thich Nhat Hanh's inner peace radiates naturally, affecting not only the practitioners but also the filmmakers, guiding them through the process with calm and warmth.

The film beautifully conveys the Zen atmosphere, with serene, thought-provoking moments that evoke a sense of deep peace and healing. It’s a gentle invitation to reflect on one’s own life, offering a soothing balm to suffering hearts. Watching this film is an opportunity for self-transformation through mindfulness, making it an essential watch for everyone seeking spiritual nourishment and peace.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITyCWa1S3PE

Maitreya Buddha is the fifth Buddha in the current age of the world, who will succeed Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, as the Teacher of the next era. However, his time to fully manifest as the Buddha has not yet come. In the past, during the lifetime of Buddha Gautama, Maitreya was known as the great Bodhisattva Ajita, and he was deeply committed to the well-being of all sentient beings. Maitreya currently resides as the spiritual leader of the Tusita Heaven and frequently manifests in various worlds to teach the Dharma, guiding beings with boundless compassion and wisdom. His teachings, delivered with skillful means, are dynamic and versatile, addressing the needs of sentient beings in a multitude of ways.

This television series, a historical drama consisting of 45 episodes, was produced in Taiwan and aired in 1997 under the title 'Bodhidharma, the Great Monk'. It narrates the fascinating and miraculous stories of the legendary monk Bodhidharma, who was believed to be an earthly manifestation of Maitreya Buddha during the Liang dynasty in China. Bodhidharma was known for his humorous nature and his wandering lifestyle, with no fixed home, yet he always returned to the Nanshan Monastery.

Through engaging, humorous, and sometimes tragic tales, the series explores profound themes such as the balance of good and evil, the nature of human character, and the law of karma. It effectively conveys the Buddhist teachings of compassion, wisdom, and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation. The cloth bag that Bodhidharma carries symbolizes the boundless spiritual power and wisdom of the Bodhisattva, showing that no obstacle can prevent his mission to liberate beings from suffering.

Actor Wang Mingzhi stars as Bodhidharma, and the series, initially broadcast on Taiwanese television, gained popularity across many countries, eventually finding a home on online platforms such as YouTube. Viewers will not only enjoy the humor but also find valuable lessons for personal growth and spiritual development.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpKMhY87Bvg

Travellers and Magicians is a 2004 film that stands as an outstanding contribution to Bhutanese cinema. The story revolves around Dondup, a government official sent to work in a remote village. The village's monotonous life only offers a few archery contests for entertainment. During his time there, Dondup becomes fascinated with America, discovering it through posters in the village. The dream of moving to America grows within him, and he decides to wear a 'I Love New York' shirt and set out on his journey. Along the way, Dondup meets new people, including a monk who offers him continuous lessons about the consequences of misguided choices. During his travels, Dondup also becomes enchanted by a naive girl named Sonam.

In the film, the director skillfully portrays the tension between traditional Bhutanese culture and the influence of Western society. Dondup's character embodies the rapid and intense intrusion of modern Western life. He views waiting for transportation as a waste of time, while his companions see it as an opportunity for relaxation, storytelling, and playing music — activities encouraged in their country. Dondup's aspiration to immigrate to the U.S. serves as a metaphor for the internal struggle between Western wealth and Bhutan's ideal of a harmonious community and joyful living. The director leaves both paths open-ended for the viewers to reflect upon.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9MqtAYTXbIg

This is a 100-episode animated series produced by the Fo Guang Shan Monastery in Taiwan, adapted from the work 'Between Illusion and Enlightenment' by Master Hsing Yun. The Vietnamese version was translated by Thich Minh Khiet and narrated by the Hoa Minh Buddhist group.

Though it is an animated series, it beautifully blends fundamental yet profound Buddhist teachings with everyday life in the monastery, seen through the eyes of a novice monk named Huanxi. The series delivers simple yet deeply meaningful lessons about ethics, self-discipline, repentance, humility, and how to develop both body and mind. These lessons transcend time, religion, nationality, and social class, making it accessible to all, especially children. The first two lines of the film's theme song are very famous: 'WHERE IS PARADISE? IT IS IN KNOWING ENOUGH AND ALWAYS BEING HAPPY. WHERE IS THE DHARMA CENTER? IT IS IN COMPASSION, JOY, AND EQUANIMITY.' A short yet profoundly meaningful phrase, capturing the essence of Buddhist teachings.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIG9pwu-Z8g

This South Korean film explores the life of an elderly master, his disciple, and a young man living in a tranquil rural monastery. The film is sparse in dialogue and unfolds slowly, encouraging viewers to reflect deeply. Everyday tasks such as chopping wood, pouring tea, and planting crops become opportunities for mindfulness, helping one realize the importance of living in the present moment. Bodhidharma, in his wisdom, used silence as a method of teaching. It challenges us, inviting introspection about the dangers of the outside world and the human tendency to be self-centered. The master urges us to contemplate these truths.

The film recreates a Zen experience, offering a glimpse into the inner struggle that occurs at various stages of meditation. It carries multiple layers of meaning, all leading to the common goal of deepening one's understanding of Buddhist teachings. By watching this film, one can be inspired to live a virtuous life, find inner peace, and cultivate a path of wisdom. Feel free to share this piece so your friends and family can also experience the profound lessons and emotional depth of this renowned Buddhist film!

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvyqPHvhhwc

This 2003 South Korean film is a classic Buddhist cinematic masterpiece, written and directed by Kim Ki-Duk, featuring actors Su Oh-yeong, Kim Young-min, Seo Jae-kyung, and Kim Jong-ho. It is considered one of the most iconic Buddhist films globally, excelling both in artistic expression and in promoting Buddhist teachings. The film won numerous awards, including Best Film at the 2003 Chunsa International Film Festival, the Blue Jong Film Award (South Korea 2003), Best Film at the 41st Daejong Film Festival (Grand Bell Awards 2004), and an audience award at the 2003 San Sebastian International Film Festival. It grossed over $9.5 million at the box office.

The film depicts the life of an elderly monk living in a small lakeside hermitage with a young novice he has adopted after the child was abandoned by his mother. It carefully explores the psychological conflicts and internal struggles of the characters, delving into the cycle of samsara. The narrative moves through themes of delusion, attachment, karma, suffering, and the cyclical nature of life, mirroring the changing seasons of Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. The film’s style, marked by minimal dialogue and a meditative, Zen-like atmosphere, requires the viewer to reflect deeply and contemplate the profound philosophical teachings of Buddhism, based on one’s level of enlightenment.

Watch here: https://ph.tinhtong.vn/Home/Video/phim-xuan-ha-thu-dong-roi-lai-xuan_00002w

The Buddha Series (Buddha) is a 55-episode adaptation of the book *Old Path White Clouds* by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. The film chronicles the life of Siddhartha Gautama, from his birth to his entry into Nirvana, in the most well-invested and high-quality production to date. Funded by Indian billionaire B.K. Modi with an investment exceeding $120 million, this Buddhist epic is deeply moving, capturing the compassion and wisdom of the Buddha with remarkable skill. The film team consulted historians, archaeologists, cultural experts, sociologists, and renowned Buddhist scholars from India and Nepal to ensure a historically accurate portrayal. Filming took place in India and Sri Lanka, recreating the ancient setting of India.

The cast features numerous Indian actors who embody the characters from the historical story, with the production being meticulously planned and executed. The screenplay was guided by Buddhist scholars from Sri Lanka, ensuring its authenticity and accuracy. The lead actor, Gagan Malik, who plays the role of the Buddha, also visited Vietnam in 2014 to participate in the United Nations Vesak Celebration and engaged in a film screening and discussion at the Tăng Phúc Pagoda.

Watch here: https://chuakhainguyen.com/vi/videos/phim-phat-giao/phim-phat-giao-cuoc-doi-duc-phat-thich-ca-92.html

"Mật Lặc Nhật Ba" is the Vietnamese title for the Tibetan Saint, MILAREPA. This is an 18-episode, short drama series (each episode lasting about 10 minutes), produced by Thanh Hai Am Tuong Con Lun Publishing. It chronicles the life of the great Tibetan Master Milarepa, who lived during the 11th and 12th centuries in southwestern Tibet. Milarepa was an extraordinary figure, a living Buddha famous worldwide for his extreme, harsh, and tragic path of asceticism. Through these trials, he achieved the ultimate enlightenment and realized the Supreme Truth, just as the Buddha did over 3000 years ago. His journey of awakening and realization is a profound and deeply moving lesson for all beings, spanning four key stages: (1) Ignorance, creating evil deeds, and suffering their consequences; (2) The severe process of enlightenment; (3) Hidden meditation and compassionate liberation of beings; (4) Entering Nirvana.

The film masterfully depicts Milarepa's life, faithfully and in detail, capturing the essence of his spiritual journey. The cast delivers such natural, immersive performances that it feels as if Milarepa himself has returned to life to teach us. Viewers are blessed with the compassion of Milarepa, which deepens their understanding of the supreme truths of Liberation, leading them to develop unwavering faith and admiration for this Eastern Saint and the Buddha's Supreme Dharma.

To witness this outstanding, captivating film is a rare opportunity, granted only to those with great merit. Milarepa made a powerful vow: "Anyone who sees my image, hears my name, listens to my teachings, or meets my disciples will be forever freed from the three evil paths (Hell, Hungry Ghosts, and Animals) and quickly attain the state of irreversible progress, accomplishing all virtues on the path to Enlightenment and Ultimate Liberation." I wish you the best of luck in watching this remarkable and beneficial film. Subtitles are available in Vietnamese, English, Chinese, and many other languages—choose the one that suits you best.

Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-koSRVbbYiY