Review of Samsara (2011) by Rand P — 14 Sep 2012

The visually stunning film Samsara showcases many of the same visual techniques and dramatic effects as its predecessor Baraka. Again, we are guided to selection of the natural and man-made wonders of our planet, the humanity that inhabits it, and the impact we have on the Earth both in beautiful and destructive ways. Shot in 70mm and expertly filmed, Samsara provides a tour of places and events that most of us would never be exposed to. It has the dual affect of eliciting gratitude and awe, and at other times causing the viewer to feel conflicted and removed. Some of the images are disturbing, and there is little question that the film is attempting to not only document beautiful landscapes and art, but also present harsh realities, invoking the viewer to contemplate the relationships and sometimes the dichotomies in each carefully paced scene.

The film is only slightly disappointing, lacking new techniques and using much of the same direction as Baraka. At times there is an almost overuse of those elements. To someone who has not seen Baraka, this would not be as evident. Rarely does a film engage the subjects to stare back at you for such extended periods. Several scenes in the film, which is completely void of dialog, include people looking, nearly glaring directly into the camera. While this achieves the intended effect of connecting the viewer to the subjects, it also feel staged, which seems contradictory to the films premise that these are not actors or Hollywood sets, but instead, our diverse planet and the reality of it.

While many of the transitions between subjects are clever, some seemed chopped and even confusing. A solo performance piece somewhere around mid-film felt completely out of place and disturbing. Still, Samsara brings to you images that are as awe inspiring as anything you may ever witness. Overall, it is a must see. My suggestion would be, if you've never seen Baraka, see it after seeing Samsara. You might appreciate both films more in that order.