The Mystic's Journey (1968-97)
Review by Dindrane
Film:
DVD:

Written and Narrated by Huston Smith
Directed by Elda Hartley

Released by: Wellspring
Region: 1
Rating: NR, safe for all ages
Anamorphic: N/A; appears in its original 1.33:1 format.

My Advice: Buy it if you're a theologian or sociologist, rent it otherwise.

The Mystic's Journey is comprised of three shorter films, each made by Elda Hartley, written and narrated by Huston Smith, a religious studies professor. Islamic Mysticism: The Sufi Way concentrates on the architecture and history of Islam and the particular sect of the Sufi mystics. Requiem for a Faith: Tibetan Buddhism discusses the beauty and tragedy of the Tibetan Buddhists, including some of their major sites, some history, and a bit about what characterizes a Tibetan Buddhist, as opposed to, say, a Chinese form of Buddhism. Finally, India and the Infinite: The Soul of a People takes a look at what makes Indian Hinduism so vital to their culture and so fascinating.

Each chapter is characterized by stunning photography. The opening scene of the Sufi film, depicting the spinning dervishes is just amazing. From the sweeping panoramas of India to the enclosed meditational spaces of Tibetan monasteries, the filmmakers more than knew what they were doing-—they're artists with a genuine, obvious love and respect for what they're showing you and what they're discussing.

Due to the age of the original film stock, these three documentaries are a bit worn. Instead of taking away from the viewing experience, however, it simply adds to the feeling of ancient wisdom as expressed by these great religions and in the narration. The camerawork also makes use of this aging process and uses light effectively to highlight those things that are truly significant here and make the limitations of the film work for the directors (and the viewer), instead of against them.

The only real weak point to this disc is in the narration. While the information Smith is imparting is verbally fascinating and quite informative, his voice itself leaves a bit to be desired. His tone is too monotonous, and overly soothing, and the effect is something more soporific than the subject matter and film quality deserves. Even viewers absolutely enthralled by the subject matter itself may have some difficulty watching these films all the way through. Another small quibble is that there are no chapter breaks on the main menu.

Overall, if you have any interest in any of these three religions or in religion in general, then you must see this disc. Anthropologists, cultural critics, and others fond of socio-cultural issues will adore this set, but it's also a wonderful choice for those interested in filmmaking. Check this disc out to see how interesting a documentary can truly be. Every age is a good time to foster understanding, and films like these can go a long way towards helping one culture understand and appreciate another.