No matter the level of one's earnest curiosity, there are some things that are difficult for outsiders to grasp with anything more than a surface level of comprehension. The Dalai Lama himself may give an explanation off the titular object, but to what extent can non-Buddhists truly appreciate its meaning? To what extent beyond basic admiration can we fathom the profound devotion of those who travel so far, sometimes for years with very precise methods, to attend a momentous occasion, or who spend so much time and energy solely on their faith? No matter how deeply a documentary may explore a topic, sometimes we can never hope to gain anything more by watching than a rudimentary academic expansion of our knowledge. So it is, I feel, with 'Wheel of time.' Werner Herzog is known for nothing if not his keen eye and shrewd intelligence, detached and dispassionate as a filmmaker yet nevertheless ever in awe of the vast spectrum humanity represents, good or ill. Here he turns his attention toward a cinematic testimony of a setting, an event, and those who facilitate and celebrate it, and in so doing gives us a small glimpse of the rich, ancient, enduring way of life embodied in Buddhism. And it's plainly fascinating.
Unless one specifically and directly shares in one fashion or another in what 'Wheel of time' shows us, I don't know that it's possible to fully, totally understand the import of the imagery laid before us. This does not mean, however, that the viewer can't cherish this remarkable culture. Herzog's camera is a gift, and so is everything he shows us: the vast, gorgeous landscapes; the vibrant dress and customs; the unbelievably meticulous construction of the mandala; the pure, wholehearted commitment and dedication of the faithful. Simply put, this is a portrait of a people that most viewers are unlikely to ever know in any other capacity, and on that basis alone this is essential. Then take into account still other aspects, such as Herzog's serene, controlled narration, providing ample context for all that he shows us; scattered kernels of undeniable wisdom provided by some of those with whom Herzog speaks in passing; and Joe Bini's tight editing and sequencing, not least of all as footage of the progression of the festival is carefully interspersed with footage of the continuing craft of the mandala. Furthermore, though only representing a small portion of the length, the interview with Takna Jigme Sangpo is genuinely gratifying, and the sparing ruminations Herzog provides towards the end are amusing food for thought.
The result is a picture that in its fundamental framework does nothing more to inform viewers, "here are your brothers and sisters across the world." That is all 'Wheel of time' needs to do and be, though, to be quietly enchanting and very worthwhile. If anything, one may reasonably argue that the scope of the movie is too broad; one may wish, for example, that we were told in more detail what every small facet of the sand mandala actually represents, nevermind other elements depicted throughout these 80 minutes. Yet Herzog's intent with this title is clear, and in that intent, it is wonderfully successful. As is true for most documentaries, anyone who isn't receptive to such non-fiction won't find anything here to change their minds; this is the type of film for those who are curious and ready and willing to learn. For all that, 'Wheel of time' is fantastic, an elegant portrayal of a sample of the great diversity that characterizes human civilization. If you're the sort of person who can get on board with such a picture, then this is all but a must-see.
Unless one specifically and directly shares in one fashion or another in what 'Wheel of time' shows us, I don't know that it's possible to fully, totally understand the import of the imagery laid before us. This does not mean, however, that the viewer can't cherish this remarkable culture. Herzog's camera is a gift, and so is everything he shows us: the vast, gorgeous landscapes; the vibrant dress and customs; the unbelievably meticulous construction of the mandala; the pure, wholehearted commitment and dedication of the faithful. Simply put, this is a portrait of a people that most viewers are unlikely to ever know in any other capacity, and on that basis alone this is essential. Then take into account still other aspects, such as Herzog's serene, controlled narration, providing ample context for all that he shows us; scattered kernels of undeniable wisdom provided by some of those with whom Herzog speaks in passing; and Joe Bini's tight editing and sequencing, not least of all as footage of the progression of the festival is carefully interspersed with footage of the continuing craft of the mandala. Furthermore, though only representing a small portion of the length, the interview with Takna Jigme Sangpo is genuinely gratifying, and the sparing ruminations Herzog provides towards the end are amusing food for thought.
The result is a picture that in its fundamental framework does nothing more to inform viewers, "here are your brothers and sisters across the world." That is all 'Wheel of time' needs to do and be, though, to be quietly enchanting and very worthwhile. If anything, one may reasonably argue that the scope of the movie is too broad; one may wish, for example, that we were told in more detail what every small facet of the sand mandala actually represents, nevermind other elements depicted throughout these 80 minutes. Yet Herzog's intent with this title is clear, and in that intent, it is wonderfully successful. As is true for most documentaries, anyone who isn't receptive to such non-fiction won't find anything here to change their minds; this is the type of film for those who are curious and ready and willing to learn. For all that, 'Wheel of time' is fantastic, an elegant portrayal of a sample of the great diversity that characterizes human civilization. If you're the sort of person who can get on board with such a picture, then this is all but a must-see.