Directed by:
Martin ScorseseScreenplay:
Melissa MathisonCinematography:
Roger DeakinsComposer:
Philip GlassCast:
Tenzin Thuthob Tsarong, Gyurme Tethong, Tulku Jamyang Kunga Tenzin, Tenzin Yeshi Paichang, Tencho Gyalpo, Tenzin Topjar, Tsewang Migyur Khangsar (more)Plots(1)
Director Martin Scorsese brings to the screen the true story of one of our eras most compelling and inspiring figures; the fourteenth Dalai Lama. Told through the eyes of His Holiness, Kundun chronicles his early life, from childhood through the Chinese occupation and his journey into exile. The film charts his extraordinary growth into a figure who raises the worlds consciousness about the Buddhist society of the spirit, the plight of Tibet, and the sufferings endured by his people with unspeakable grace and dignity. It is the story of a remarkable boy, imbued with the insight and wisdom of centuries, whose will proves indomitable. (Universal Sony Pictures Home Entertainment)
(more)Reviews (3)
Beautifully and sensitively shot, much deeper in thought and information than Seven Years in Tibet, and with perfect cinematography. The Chinese government filed an official protest against it, and I don't think this film could have asked for a better accolade.
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I don't like to link to someone else’s review, but Lima really nailed it this time. :-) Otherwise, as for my opinion, I can't but praise. Scorsese is a master filmmaker who could have sensitively and engagingly filmed perhaps Saddam Hussain's childhood, and the soundtrack by Philip Glass is simply phenomenal. And most importantly, the film is utterly engrossing, fully narrating a historical stage in the span of some twelve years without exceeding the two-hour runtime – call it what you will, but I call it art. 90%
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Scorsese adapted the pace of the film to life in Tibet. The pace is incredibly slow, which can discourage many people. On the other hand, it is beneficial for conveying the message. Even when the Chinese army arrives, the pace does not change. It's as if Scorsese is trying his best to convey the Buddhist philosophy to the audience, which seems to be unaware of evil or accepting it without acting upon it. The film portrays the difference between how peaceful and gentle the world can be and how cruel and hostile it can become. The Dalai Lama is such an interesting character that even his childhood can keep the audience engaged in the film. Unfortunately, just like the slow pace, the overall tone of the film is also similar. It's as if nothing can be done, things will simply be as they are.
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