Buddhism and American cinema
Book Description
When the Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, American cinema began an unprecedented exploration of Buddhist themes that would span the next decade. This groundbreaking scholarly examination reveals how Hollywood has both portrayed and embodied Buddhist wisdom, often in unexpected ways.
John Whalen-Bridge and his contributors present a fascinating dual perspective on Buddhist cinema. They explore films explicitly centered on Buddhist culture and history, from the Tibetan landscapes of Kundun to the mystical realms of Lost Horizon. Yet their analysis extends far beyond obvious Buddhist narratives to uncover profound dharma teachings hidden within seemingly unrelated American films like Groundhog Day and The Matrix.
Through careful examination of 257 pages, readers discover how fundamental Buddhist concepts such as karma, the bardo, and reincarnation emerge naturally within diverse cinematic stories. The authors skillfully weave together Buddhist theoretical frameworks with contemporary interpretive approaches, including feminist and postcolonial perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of understanding.
This pioneering work offers spiritual seekers and film enthusiasts alike a unique lens for viewing both Buddhist philosophy and American cinema. Whether you are drawn to explicit spiritual narratives or curious about finding deeper meaning in popular entertainment, this scholarly yet accessible exploration reveals how ancient wisdom traditions continue to shape modern storytelling in profound and surprising ways.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 257 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore History and criticism
- ✓ Understand Buddhist philosophy and practice
- ✓ Explore Kultur
- ✓ Explore Buddhism
- ✓ Explore Film
- ✓ Explore Motion pictures, united states
- ✓ Explore Religion in motion pictures
- ✓ Explore Buddhism in motion pictures
Topics Covered
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