By Tsering Dhundup
DHARAMSHALA, August 4: A new documentary titled “Wisdom of Happiness,” which delves into the teachings and life of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, is set to release at the end of the year. Directed by Barbara Miller and Philip Delaquis, the film features the 89-year-old Tibetan spiritual leader speaking directly to the camera about the universal quest for inner peace and happiness, envisioning a peaceful and happy 21st century.
Renowned actor Richard Gere and acclaimed director Oren Moverman are the executive producers for the documentary. “This is a small movie that can have a big impact on the future,” remarked Gere, a long-time student and friend of the Dalai Lama. Moverman expressed his gratitude for being part of the project, stating, “As a filmmaker, I am deeply grateful for the invitation to join this truly unique movie that so beautifully paints loving kindness into a pictorial landscape. Gifting the audience a viewing experience like no other, ‘Wisdom of Happiness’ celebrates our common humanity by way of a wise and surprisingly entertaining messenger.”
Currently in production, “Wisdom of Happiness” is slated for a fourth-quarter release (October-December). Ascot Elite and X Film Verleih have acquired all rights for distribution in German-speaking territories, while the filmmakers are actively seeking U.S. distribution.
According to a report by Variety, the documentary promises to offer a close portrayal of the Dalai Lama, including interviews and never-before-seen archival footage from the Tibetan government archives. It chronicles the journey of Tenzin Gyatso, who became the spiritual leader of Tibet at the tender age of 4 in 1940. The film will also explore how the Dalai Lama balances ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions with contemporary global values.
Barbara Miller the director of the documentary emphasised the film’s unprecedented personal insights, saying, “Never before has the Nobel Peace Prize winner been seen so up-close and personal in a film.” Producer Philip Delaquis highlighted the Dalai Lama’s relevance in contemporary times, particularly in addressing global crises such as war and climate change. “Our motivation for making the film was to help as many people around the world as possible navigate the challenges of our times, and counter fear and insecurity with positive emotions so we may show solidarity and demonstrate hope,” Delaquis said.
Supported by private Swiss funding, the documentary was shot by cameraman Manuel Bauer, a close friend of His Holiness. Regarding the Swiss-born photographer, the Dalai Lama stated, “Manuel Bauer is more than simply a professional: he is a close friend of mine. He also knows a great deal about Tibet, about the Tibetan community, and he has spent years making himself familiar with our culture. He understands Tibet comprehensively, as he does the exile community; and he knows me very well too. It is this knowledge that allows his pictures to say so much about their subjects.”
One Response
Great! if 21st turns into what is going to be mentioned in the film, that will be narrated by the well known Actor Richard Gere and the companion, the world will see a new light. Therefore, every one of us must struggle and hope for a dint of light. Though it is a bit late to do so, but not too late to use every opportunity one can afford.