Bertolucci's "Little Buddha" brings a modernity to the ancient story of Prince Siddhartha, who became the Buddha. "Siddhartha", by Hermann Hesse is one of my favourite books, so I was delighted to see the story reincarnated in film, especially by so adept a director as Bernardo Bertolucci. The cinematography is absolutely captivating, and by the time the film has run its course, the watcher will feel as though he has actually visited these ancient lands.
Woven throughout is the vital Buddhist philosophy that by remaining open and honest in our lives and pursuits, by exercising those childlike qualities, while standing inside ourselves, we will find that the most challenging and rewarding activity is to simply just be.
My belief is that this tale is very adaptable and relative to most everyone, in the context that the Buddhists advocate moderation in life, or "the middle way." In this fast-paced society, we all too often find ourselves going to extremes or allowing ourselves to become obsessed with certain behaviours, ideas, people, etc. When I finished this movie I felt a beautiful sense of calm. It is poignant and revealing and touches not only the human spirit, but our human nature, of which we are not always proud.
I highly recommend this film.
-TF*