Review of Samsara (2011) by Tom D — 23 Sep 2012
A breathtaking visual montage of the natural and the human worlds, loosely linked thematically. For a film with no story or dialogue, it's astonishing just how joyful, disturbing, poignant and moving these images can be.
While the film takes no explicit moral positions, and to some extent what you take from the film will depend on you, the choice of subject matter and the way in which they are linked together certainly invite comparisons and reflection.
Unsurprisingly, the view of the urbanised and mechanised world doesn't come across so well as that of natural and spiritual one. But I think it would be a mistake to assume any simplistic message is intended.
The images are chosen precisely because of the emotional response they trigger - this doesn't necessarily imply a moral agenda (the same is true for a nature documentary, for example). Well worth seeking out on the big screen for the amazing visuals - a film that will stay with you.
This review of Samsara (2011) was written by Tom D on 23 Sep 2012.
Samsara has generally received very positive reviews.
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