Films about Buddha explore the life, teachings, and legacy of Siddhartha Gautama, the spiritual leader and founder of Buddhism. These films often delve into his journey towards enlightenment, his teachings of compassion and wisdom, and the impact of his philosophy on followers around the world.
“The Buddha”, 2010
Director: David Grubin
This documentary by David Grubin chronicles the life of Siddhartha Gautama, from his privileged upbringing to his quest for spiritual truth and eventual enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
Starring: Richard Gere, Blair Brown, Dalai Lama, Mark Epstein, Jane Hirshfield, William Stanley Merwin, D. Max Moerman, Robert Thurman, Kevin Trainor;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: documentary;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
“Little Buddha”, 1993
Director: Bernardo Bertolucci
Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, this film follows the story of a young boy in Seattle who may be the reincarnation of a Tibetan monk. The film weaves together the modern-day narrative with the ancient tale of Prince Siddhartha and his path to becoming the Buddha.
Starring: Keanu Reeves, Ying Ruocheng, Chris Isaak, Alex Wiesendanger, Raju Lal, Greishma Makar Singh, Sogyal Rinpoche, Ven. Khyongla Rato Rinpoche, Bridget Fonda, Ven. Geshe Tsultim Gyelsen;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 141 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,1;
More information about the film “Little Buddha” on the website imdb.com
“Samsara”, 2011
Director: Ron Fricke
Directed by Pan Nalin, this film tells the story of a Buddhist monk's journey from the isolated monastery where he has lived for years to the bustling city of Bangkok. Along the way, he encounters various individuals who challenge his beliefs and understanding of the world.
Starring: Ni Made Megahadi Pratiwi, Puti Sri Candra Dewi, Putu Dinda Pratika, Marcos Luna, Hiroshi Ishiguro, Olivier De Sagazan, Kikumaru, Crisanto Neire, Balinese Tari Legong Dancers, Ladyboys of Cascade Bar;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: documentary, music;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,4;
“The Cup”, 2011
Director: Simon Wincer
Set in a Tibetan monastery in exile in India, this film directed by Khyentse Norbu follows a group of young monks who are obsessed with watching the World Cup. When the abbot bans the viewing of the matches, they must find a way to watch the final game without getting caught.
Starring: Bryan Martin, Stephen Curry, Jodi Gordon, Daniel MacPherson, Alice Parkinson, Shaun Micallef, Martin Sacks, Colleen Hewett, Andrew Curry, Meredith Penman, Brendan Gleeson, Kate Bell, Tom Burlinson, Nick Simpson-Deeks, Lewis Fitz-Gerald, Rodger Corser, Alan Hopgood, Ali Ammouchi, Amanda LaBonte, Raj Sidhu, Claire Chitham, Bobby Fox, Bill Hunter, Rhys McConnochie, Reg Gorman, Ian Cover, Jared Daperis, Mick Lo Monaco, Andrew Bongiorno, Tony Rickards, Marty Fields, Janet Foye, Freddie Curry, Samson Magasanik, Ashley Wincer, Flynn Curry, Ian Rooney, Lachlan Macdonald, Brenda Addie, Laurence Brewer, Rowan Freeman, Soula Robinson, Ray Tiernan, Lawrence Mooney, Ben Grant, Scott Bowie, John Higginson, Teressa Liane, Tory West, Scott Parmeter, Judy Campbell, Claudia Hruschka, Patricia Judah, Rob Gaylard, Sue Lloyd-Williams, Greg Carroll, Terry Brittingham, Matt Rainey, Alex Borg, Richard Keenan, Rick Page, Reg Roordink, Will Jones, Noel Davis, Neil Solomano, Phil Hayden, Anthony Guilbert, Paul Didham, Greg Miles, Brian Blackmore, Brian Markovic, Gerard Whateley, Dennis Cometti, Eddie McGuire, Peter Hitchener, Steven Quartermain, Donna Demaio, Alf Matthews, Leith Mulligan, Nick McCallum, Michael Felgate, Wayne Dyer, Tony Jones, Billy Baxter, Greg Champion, Tony Leonard, Jeff Richardson, Tim Budas, Mel Churches, Philip Hayden, Shenae Ryan, Benjamin Barling, Leanne Campbell, Max Davine, Richard Davine, Naomi Davis, Peter DeRauch, Xavier Gouault, Yvonne Hall, Justine Jones, Sean McIntyre, Andy Meritakis, Vito T. Midolo, Adam L. Pollard, Cory Richardson, Kim Ross, Majid Shokor;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, biography, sport;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 99 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,6;
More information about the film “The Cup” on the website imdb.com
These films offer varying perspectives on the life and teachings of Buddha, showcasing the enduring relevance of his message of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
Films about Buddha offer a rich and diverse exploration of the life and teachings of the historical figure, providing audiences with a glimpse into the profound wisdom and spiritual journey of one of the world's most influential religious leaders. Whether portrayed through a historical lens or interpreted through modern storytelling, these films capture the essence of compassion, enlightenment, and the pursuit of inner peace. Through compelling narratives and captivating visuals, these movies not only entertain but also inspire contemplation and introspection, inviting viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and values. Overall, Films about Buddha serve as a powerful reminder of the enduring relevance and universal appeal of his teachings, resonating with audiences of all backgrounds and beliefs.
