PBS Documentary "Buddha"

[Rob_Hugo@PortNW]

The PBS documentary “Buddha” was a good introduction for those who know very little about Buddhism. The first hour was the story of Siddhartha Gautama, including a brief explanation of the Vedic world he was born into. The second hour gave an overview of some Buddhist philosophy. It was narrated by the actor Richard Gere and included a few interesting talking heads such as the Dalai Lama, Tenzen Gyatso, and Zen Buddhist poets Jane Hirshfield and W.S. Merwin. Despite the fact that the documentary was overlong and, in my opinion, a little indulgent of the film-maker’s artistic sensibilities, I enjoyed it. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for classroom use. Schlessinger Media has an excellent series on “Understanding World Religions.” Its video “What Is Buddhism?” includes much of the same material covered in the PBS documentary and does so in approximately 30 minutes. It is designed for Grades 4 – 7, and is ideal for my sixth graders.
There was one line from the PBS documentary that I especially appreciated. When discussing reincarnation, one of the talking heads admonished the viewers not to see this as a romantic process. Instead, he warned, “every lifetime is like going through junior high school over and over again.”
Nancy Stansbury

[Anonymous]

That was definitely THE quote of the recent PBS movie on Buddha, (reincarnation being likened to re-living junior high repeatedly)! Of all the rationale I have ever heard in my life for trying to transcend the cycle of rebirth- this one gave me the most pause by far! Even most middle school age or older kids would be able to relate to that!
At times I thought the movie was very basic, a primer or refresher. The second half drew me in more. The trippy, psychedelic-type animation was a great touch. I specifically thought to myself, "the kids would love this."
I agree it took a long time to say a little, but I was completely drawn in and absorbed. I think my kids would enjoy this movie but I am always glad to have recommendations of other movies as well.
The bottom line is that I am an inveterate PBS addict- I haven't met one of their programs I haven't liked yet![Edit by="price on Apr 9, 12:16:41 AM"][/Edit]

[Anonymous]

An excellent way ot teach about the Buddha is to combine the book "Siddartha" by Hesse with the film "Little Buddha" starring Keanu Reeves. Though the film interpretation is a bit Hollywood, it iffers a great modern perspective on the religion and what folks are doing with it these days. Buddhism is not a topic that most of my students know anything about prior to being exposed to it in my class.

[Anonymous]

I found this to be a beautiful documentary for introducing Buddha to all.

[Anonymous]

I use Herman Hesse's book Siddhartha when I teach the origins of Buddhism, but I was unaware their was a film version. Does it really have Keanu Reeves in it? How does that guy play the most enlightened character in history?

[Anonymous]

Siddartha is one of my favorite books and I was just talking to an English teacher who was looking for supplemental materials to go along with it. I will suggest this to her! Thanks!!

[Anonymous]

The documentary was one I think would draw the kids in. I liked the scene with the Lion under the tree When young Siddartha questions fear and demonstrates the courage to teach others despite their presumptions.

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