Message from spavelkagregg

[Anonymous]

While this film would not be appropriate for a K-12 curriculum inclusion, it is worthy of renting, if for no other reason but to see some spectacular cinematography and to encounter a fable that follows the Buddist philosophy, featuring minimal dialogue yet profound visual symbolism. "Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter...and Spring" in it's pictoral elegance supercedes other Asian films I have encountered with regard to the depth of it's cinematography. Not only is it photographically rich but moreover, the camera captures the beauty of existence. This thought provoking film explores the simple moral lessons that dwell at the core of the Korean Buddhist culture through quiet seasonal portraits. Captured through the artistic conceptualization of South Korean director Kim Ki-duk, the picture has a quiet rhythm that punctuates each scene and keeps the story cohesive. As each season unfolds during the movie, a new part of a young monk's journey is revealed. Beginning with Spring and the innocence of his youth and moving to Summer and the challenges and conflicts of adolescence, the bad decisions made lead despair and regret in the Fall and finally resolution and final maturity during the Winter, which is followed of course by a new beginning, a rebirth. The Buddhist philosophical messages of adherence to sprituality and avoidance of want and desire because of their destructive nature are clearly evident, even to the Western mind because the cameraman's perspective and artistry leaves an enduring impression. Even the setting, atop the mountains, somewhere in Korea, with a floating monastery that sits on a lake, pays homage to the Buddhist theme of constant change and transition. Coming from a background in Shakespearean studies, the stages of life as told in this memorable cinematic piece reminds me of the seven stages of man so plainly set to paper by the Bard himself. Other traditions and cultures can relate to the central message of this tale but some of the lessons are purely Buddhist. The addition of various animal companions throughout the life of the Holy Man does suggest symbolic representation of reincarnation. A puppy is seen during the boy's youth, followed by a chicken, cat, snake and tortoise but none of the dialogue draws attention to the inclusion of the animals. The viewer must see the changes and make his or her own connections to the inherent Buddhist teachings. While one of the central characters, the master, is a great teacher, he hardly utters a word as the greatest lessons learned are through self discovery. Both at the beginning of the movie and at the end the young boy is meant to represent each one of us, for in the Buddhist tradition, as one sets out on life's path, one comes upon choices which allow us make the decision to succumb to the temptation therein or to master our own desire by refusing to give in and therefore controlling our own nature. The seasons provide a soft reminder of the cyclical nature of conception, maturation, expiration and rebirth as embraced by the Buddhists and as recognized by many other cultures throughout the world. This film as told in visual haiku is a true work of art and treat for the eyes as well as the mind. Most worthy to view and available at your local video store in the foreign film section. Enjoy![Edit by="spavelkagregg on Jan 9, 7:01:26 PM"][/Edit]