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June 11, 2015
MOVIE | The lesser-known side of the 14th Dalai Lama is brought to light
MOVIE | His lesser-known side, including answering young people's questions with humor, is brought to light.
Documentary 'Dalai Lama 14th' Follows the Monk for Six Years
His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, is the subject of the documentary 'Dalai Lama 14th.' This film, which closely follows him for six years, explores his lesser-known aspects and contemplates the meaning of 'true peace.' It will begin its nationwide theatrical release on Saturday, May 30th, at Eurospace and other theaters.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
FUJISHIRO Kōichi, Director of 'Osaka Hamlet,' Handles Editing and Structure
Recognized as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama at the age of two and forced into exile in India due to China's invasion of Tibet, the 14th Dalai Lama has lived a life of upheaval. This documentary captures the rarely seen side of the monk, believed to be an incarnation of Avalokiteśvara, as he sincerely, and at times humorously, answers questions posed by young people in Tokyo.
The production was helmed by photographer USUI Daikan, who has dedicated his career to photographing 'People Contributing to World Peace,' and his son, USUI Kazuyoshi. Their close association with the Dalai Lama began in 1991 when they were granted permission for private filming at his residence. This led to an official commission in 2007 to capture photographs and video of the Dalai Lama during his visit to Japan.
Footage from interviews in India was added, and FUJISHIRO Kōichi, director of 'Osaka Hamlet,' took charge of the structure and editing. The narration is provided by ENMOTO Tasuku, known for his compelling performances as a young actor.
Filmed Relaxing in His Dressing Room, a Monk Still in Study
The 14th Dalai Lama received imperial education from childhood as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama and was entrusted with full political authority at the age of 15. He fled to India at 23 due to China's invasion of Tibet, and to this day, his dream of returning to Tibet remains unfulfilled, despite his continuous advocacy for peace.
His Holiness has met with world leaders, appealing for the plight of Tibet and the realization of peace through non-violence. In contrast, in the privacy of his dressing room, he removes his glasses, relaxes with tea, and reveals a more personal side. Here, we see him as a monk still engaged in daily study.
The film also captures his responses to questions from young people in Tokyo, such as 'What kind of hairstyle would you like to try?' and 'What is peace?', delivered with a mix of sincerity and humor. It concludes with a message of encouragement from the Dalai Lama to us all.
This documentary incorporates teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, passed down through generations, alongside footage from the Tibetan exile community in India. How can he maintain such a gentle gaze amidst such harsh circumstances? It reveals the true, unknown side of the Dalai Lama.
'Dalai Lama 14th'
Opening nationwide on Saturday, May 30th, at Eurospace and other theaters.
Planning & Cinematography | USUI Kazuyoshi / USUI Daikan
Director, Structure & Editing | FUJISHIRO Kōichi
Narration | ENMOTO Tasuku
Distribution | Buenos Film
2014 / Japan / 116 min
http://www.d14.jp
© Buenos film