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Buddhism teaches people to live virtuously, cultivate inner peace, and explore the path to enlightenment, bringing moments of happiness and tranquility. Below are the top Buddhist films that will change your outlook on life.
1. Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter... and Spring (2003)
Amidst the wilderness of South Korea, a Buddhist master patiently nurtures a young boy in wisdom and spiritual insight through endless experiences and teachings. As the boy grows up, he discovers his own desires and seemingly loses himself in the pursuit of his first love. However, upon realizing the true essence of life, the disciple returns to seek redemption from his Master. By dragging a heavy stone for miles to the mountain peak and letting go where the mountain sits in meditation, he finds the strength to unload his burdens and redeem himself.
4. The Journey of Bodhi-Dharma: Exploring the Eastern Essence (1989)
Three individuals reside in a Buddhist monastery near Mount Chonan: the venerable old monk Hyegok, a young man who abandoned his family in the city in search of enlightenment - Yong Nan, and an orphaned child named Haejin, whom Hyegok brings to the monastery to become a novice. The story primarily revolves around Yong Nan, recounted in flashbacks: his arrival at the monastery, brief return to the city, and existential emptiness amidst a chaotic world, striving to transcend passions and self-identity. Hyegok serves as a mentor, protector, and father figure, guiding young Haejin to find his own path and independence. A thought-provoking film that delves deep into life's philosophies, awakening introspection within each viewer.
5. Journey of Serenity: Walking Along the Path of Peace (2018)
The film portrays a community of Zen Buddhist monks and nuns who dedicate their lives to mastering the art of mindfulness under the guidance of the world-renowned teacher Thich Nhat Hanh. Shot over three years in France and the United States, this intimate and meditative film immerses viewers into a world seemingly distant from our own, showcasing how monks and nuns transform their own suffering and that of others through profound understanding of the nature of existence, suffering, and true self.
6. Enlightenment's Path: The Life of Lord Buddha Thich Ca (1993)
The film narrates the story of Prince Siddhartha, foretold at birth to become a great spiritual teacher. To prevent this, the king arranges a luxurious life for the prince with a beautiful wife and a son. However, after witnessing the suffering of humanity, Prince Siddhartha renounces his lavish life to embark on a journey of spiritual practice, enlightenment, and ultimately becoming a Buddha. He travels far and wide, spreading insights that form the foundation of a religious philosophy based on peace, equality, and liberation.
7. Eternal Cycle: The Odyssey of Reincarnation (2001)
A sacred love story, juxtaposed against the majestic backdrop of Ladakh, the grand Himalayas. Samsara portrays a quest, the struggle of an individual to find spiritual enlightenment by renouncing the world, and the struggle of a woman to maintain her love and enlightenment amidst the world's chaos. However, their destinies twist, turn, and lead to a surprising conclusion.
8. Dreamers' Odyssey: Journey to America (2004)
Dondup yearns for the American dream, seeking a better life, and embarks on a journey to realize his aspirations. Hindered by delays, Dondup finds himself stranded in the beautiful wilderness of Bhutan. Along the way, he encounters a monk, an apple seller, a papermaker, and the lovely young daughter of the latter - Sonam. Throughout the journey, the monk shares wise tales of misjudgment, particularly Dondup's temptation by the innocent and beautiful Sanam.
9. Eccentric Enlightener: The Tale of Mad Monk (1993)
Once revered as the Bodhisattva Guanyin descended to earth to save mankind, Mad Monk is known for his unconventional lifestyle. Despite being a monk, he indulges in meat and alcohol, dresses shabbily, and carries a fan instead of traditional implements. Yet, he repeatedly employs his miraculous powers to vanquish demons, aiding the common folk to avoid misfortunes.
10. Brotherhood in Captivity: The Shamma Brothers (2008)
In a notoriously brutal yet supposedly secure prison, a significant transformation occurs due to the influence of an ancient meditation program. They conduct a nine-day retreat within the confines of the towering security block, surrounded by razor wire and electric fences where inmates condemned to perpetual darkness during daylight hours. The miraculous outcome of the retreat gradually stirs emotions among the prisoners through meditation sessions, leaving viewers deeply moved. The film delivers a message: Meditation can transform, even touching those deemed unlikely subjects.
Above are the most meaningful and enlightening Buddhist films curated and compiled by Mytour. Each film, with its distinct essence, offers viewers different messages but converges to impart profound Buddhist teachings, fostering goodness. Experience the profound lessons behind these films with friends and loved ones.
