Series II

lights in the sky

earth rising heaven descending

Buddhist films, series two

Series one tells the story up to 1979 of the Buddhist movement Urgyen Sangharakshita set up to extend the the legacy of the Buddha into the West.

EARTH RISING HEAVEN DESCENDING

The new series focuses on the present-day network of connections, inner and outer comprising The Buddha Way. Avoiding any dogmatism this radically-spirited series balances diversity with unity, idealism with realism. Though one modern tradition amongst others, the FWBO displays a wide range of lifestyles, cultures and commitment, and a healthy mix of spiritual qualities.

1. Background (A pilgrimage) 42 mins. - Maybe odd to begin with a devotional, almost nostalgic review of the spiritual background (in dull, technical language: lineage). From a rain washed English city, the venerable founder of the FWBO looks 50 years back to his life as a Buddhist monk following in the footsteps of his Indian, Tibetan and Chinese teachers. Then three disciples set out on a pilgrimage to the lower Himalayas to hear stories still told about this remarkable Englishman and his illustrious spiritual forebears. From monastery walls, Tantric Buddhist deities stare out at Sangharakshita’s successors.

August 07 release. Trailer Slideshow

2. Once Free (Conversations in America) 63 mins. - Modern life is dominated culturally and economically, but not politically, by the US. Without giving away answers, this poetic film asks some pertinent questions.

In the land of Liberty do the gods of time, money and fear allow much freedom? Views from Montana to Manhattan, from a county jail to a blasphemous gay bingo.

August 07 release. Trailer Slideshow

3. Recurring Dream ckj&ckj vkrk liuk (Conversations in India) 64 mins. - The Indian social system (of some 600+ different castes) radically limits freedom of choice, most radically with marriages. 50 years ago Indian Law Minister Dr Ambedkar beat a path for himself and other Untouchables by renouncing the grasp of Hinduism by publicly embracing Buddhism.

For millions of the oppressed, there are visible changes and important breakthroughs especially, and quietly perhaps, by women.

August 08 release Slideshow Review in FWBO-News

4. Associating (working title) - The theme of ‘The Individual and the Group’ is explored in the diverse cultures of Finland, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Ukraine, Germany, France and the UK.