10 Questions for the Dalai Lama

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DVD details

Actor: Rick Ray, The Dalai Lama
DVD: Region Code 1
Audio: English (Original Language)
Format: Color, DVD-Video, NTSC
Picture Format: 1.33:1
Running Time: 85 minutes
DVD Release Date: 2007-10-23
Audience Rating: Unrated
Studio: MONTEREY VIDEO

DVD Reviews of 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama

DVD Review: an important and inspiring film
Summary: 4 Stars

In "10 Questions for the Dalai Lama," documentary filmmaker Rick Ray journeys to Dharamsala in northern India to speak with the man he describes as both a "humble Buddhist monk" and a "rock star of peace," and who is believed by many to be the reincarnation of Buddha here on earth (though the Dalai Lama himself denies this, insisting that he is a mere mortal like everyone else).

You don't have to be a believer or even a particularly spiritual person to be moved and inspired by this film, which provides us with a rare up-close-and-personal look at one of the key religious figures in the world today. What comes out both in the interview and in the various glimpses we are given of him in his meetings with many of the world's movers and shakers in government and religion, is just what a fun-loving, down-to-earth, and self-effacing a man he truly is, even though he is never shy about confronting injustice whenever or wherever it rears its ugly head. Much of that feistiness derives, of course, from his own experience of having to flee his native Tibet in the early 1950's when the Communist Chinese invaded that country, and then being forced to live as an exile in a foreign land ever since.

To a disinterested observer, the Dalai Lama may seem, in many ways, to be a walking contradiction; an advocate for the ancient art of transcendence through meditation, he is also a passionate devotee of science and a champion of modern technology (his monks are very "hep" to the internet, and he, himself, is well-versed in quantum physics and neuroscience). In fact, if there is disagreement between science and religion, he will generally come down on the side of science. Fiercely ecumenical and tolerant of the beliefs of others, he's quick to point out the flaws in his own traditional beliefs when they conflict with the more enlightened ways of the modern world (the elimination of the caste system, equality for women etc.). The Dalai Lama comes across as a man ruled as much by the practical concerns of having to exist in a highly diverse, multicultural world as by his obviously innate love for humanity itself.

But it is when confronted with the question of how to respond to evil in the world that this man shows what he is truly made of. A passionate believer in civil disobedience (like Jesus, Gandhi and Martin Luther King before him), the Dalai Lama stays true to his principles by not calling for violent action even against his own people's oppressors, the Chinese. He still believes, all these years later, that more can be gained by engaging on a personal level with one's enemy than by fighting them. That's a bit tough for us in the West to understand, especially when the film shows us the terrible suffering and injustice the Tibetan people have endured under Communist rule. Yet, when you hear him speak, it's impossible not to be convinced by the depth of his wisdom and the force of his moral character.

Going beyond the conversation itself, Ray provides fascinating background information on the history of Buddhism, the invasion of Tibet, and the biographical details of the Dalai Lama himself, including how he was chosen for this exalted position, how he spent his childhood, how he fled the invaders when still a teen, and how he has dedicated his life since to fighting, through nonviolent means, for the restoration of Tibet to its rightful people.

Filled with exquisite vistas and beautiful images of nature, Ray's film is a passionate cry for justice as well as a finely-wrought, contemplative vision of a leader who calls upon the better angels in all of us to help make this world a more peaceful place both for ourselves and those who will come after us.

DVD Review: 10 Questions For The Dali Lama
Summary: 5 Stars

Though wise beliefs, and a gentle spirit are evident in this man; it is clearly his sense of humour that struck me the most. Add to this the genuiness and authticity with which he greats the people of the world and I must say this film had a profound impact on me. Though some here have questioned the film makers take on things, I would suspect the Lama himself only embraced this work and saw it as a step in the right direction - that is he would have commented on it with gentleness, humility and acceptance. I thought Mr Ray's back drop of history, off set the Dali Lama's message beautifully provding a rich context from which one can understand just how breath-taking his acceptance of the modern China is. His answers to world problems are profound in their simplicity and in his conviction. Coming from a evangelical Christian tradition myself, this man lives out the beliefs of my own spirituality as or more effectively than the Christian leaders of our day. And yet, he would not see it that way...it is said "the humble will inherit the earth" ... if such is true I hope that what ever a person's spiritual convictions,that the key ideas in this film will not need to be diminished or attacked - i.e. win-win problem solving, openess, peace via non-violent means, acceptance of science as a useful tool in religion, religious tolerance, love, gentleness and respect, that attachment to things brings misery, the place of women and the poor in regards to power. I think these are the very messages my Lord taught also...and though there are key differneces from my perspective surely we can learn from each other if openess and acceptance are practiced. This documentary is well worth the time and my hope is it might even change a few hardened hearts. Mr Rick Ray thanks for your noble efforts and risk taking to bring this too us.

DVD Review: A Documentary for Our Times
Summary: 5 Stars

This is definitely a documentary for our times. Rick Ray did an excellent job of combining current conditions he observed, prior to his meeting with the Dalai Lama, which helped him formulate his 10 questions he asked. These questions are pertainent to the challenges facing Tibetan Buddhists, in terms of its relationship to China, as well as how world events effect all of us. Greed, the desire to have more (and never feel content vs. having nothing and being happy), and living in an over populated world (just a few of the topics discussed) are individual issues, perhaps, each one of us need to look at. You need not be a Buddhist to consider these issues. These are universal. The Dalai Lama's anwsers were not difficult to understand; they were down-to-earth, common sense. As always, the Dalai Lama never ceases to amaze me with his compassion for all sentient beings. Though he considers himself to be a "simple monk," I truly believe his is the living embodiment of the Buddha of Compassion. (And then there's his robust laugh which is infectious. I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard.)

Unfortunately, it's too bad that Ray only had 45 minutes to talk with the Dalai Lama. More questions popped into my mind as the two men conversed. I wonder if Ray felt that way too. Overall, as a Buddhist I walked away with a new awareness and food for thought. However, I'm deeply concerned about what will happen to Tibetan Buddhism once Dalai Lama passes over. Will China euthanize all Tibetan Buddhists? Will the new generation of Tibetan Buddhists throw the practice of non-violence to the side and take up arms against the Chinese in order to recapture Tibet? More things to think about.

I give Rick Ray and his wife a 5 star rating.

DVD Review: Engaging and Informative
Summary: 5 Stars

This video is concerned with the fourteenth Dalai Lama's activities as the political and spiritual leader of a refugee community and advocate for peace, and the historical, political and social context for these activities.

This is an accessible video, providing basic information in a visually engaging manner, and showcasing the Dala Lama's personal charisma, sometimes by showing the Dalai Lama "in action," sometimes through observations from those whose lives he has touched. I'd recommend this video to those interested in any of a number of things -- the situation of the Tibetans; the Dalai Lama's personality, political and social activities and life story; and some of his basic social and political views, in particular, nonviolence.

This film's focus is broader than the title suggests. presenting briefly, but vividly, aspects of life in India, particularly the Himalayan region (entirely consistent with my recollections of time spent in India). Also included are a brief biography of the fourteenth Dalai Lama (including footage of his accepting the Nobel Peace Prize), and some aspects of the situation and character of some Tibetan exile communities, including a small monastery in Ladakh.

These somewhat disparate elements are unified by a first-person narrative that discusses the filmmaker's interests leading to the interview, provides background for the discussion with the Dalai Lama, and then explores themes pertinent to the content of the interview. Like another reviewer, I found some of the observations trite, but the approach works well overall.

The most significant part of the "ten questions" for me was the discussion surrounding the Dalai Lama's commitment to nonviolence, and advocacy for peaceful and positive engagement with the Chinese government in a very difficult situation.

The Dalai Lama is an insightful and prolific teacher and philosopher, and there are interesting texts and videos that present in-depth teachings on specific topics. This video seems to be addressed to more general interests.

DVD Review: Great PR Job....
Summary: 1 Stars

I've been a serious fan of the Dalai Lama after reading many of his books--this is genuinely a man of great insight into humanity, and a noble man who is fighting for the future of his people.

Unfortunately, this film-maker seems to oversimplify the situation in Tibet and the film has become decidedly, very anti-Chinese.

I mean get serious, Rick Ray says he "feels closer to heaven" being in Tibet and is now an expert on the Tibet issue after spending some of his vacation time in a Tibetan monastery? I couldn't help but to roll my eyes...

I've never heard the Dalai Lama speak until this film, and am a bit overwhelmed at how polished his political skills are, as well as how inconsistent his arguments are. On the one hand, he is criticizing the basic tenents of the caste system of Hinduism and of how the people he met in Jerusalem should have more festivals and picnics in order to resolve their political issues, and on the other hand his assistant is saying how the Dalai Lama and Buddhism is so respectful and inclusive of all other religions. Is there a hint of hypocrisy here?

Don't get me wrong, I am a big follower of Buddhist philosophy and have been moved by the Tibetan cause for their right to self determination, especially after my own experiences of meeting people in Tibet. However, there are 2 sides to every story, and this film is unabashedly biased by this film-maker.

After watching this film, I am quite disappointed that the Dalai Lama has become such an obvious PR vehicle especially after recent events and even more disappointed that people are being persuaded by one-sided arguments by irresponsible film makers like Rick Ray. I do sincerely hope that people who form an opinion choose to be better informed before doing so.

Description of 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama

How do you reconcile a commitment to non-violence when faced with violence? Why do the poor often seem happier than the rich? Must a society lose its traditions in order to move into the future? These are some of the questions posed to His Holiness the Dalai Lama by filmmaker and explorer Rick Ray. Ray examines some of the fundamental questions of our time by weaving together observations from his own journeys throughout India and the Middle East, and the wisdom of an extraordinary spiritual leader. This is his story, as told and filmed by Rick Ray during a private visit to his monastery in Dharamsala, India over the course of several months. Also included is rare historical footage as well as footage supplied by individuals who at great personal risk, filmed with hidden cameras within Tibet. Part biography, part philosophy, part adventure and part politics, "10 Questions for The Dalai Lama" conveys more than history and more than answers - it opens a window into the heart of an inspiring man. If you had only one hour, what would you ask?

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