Darshan - L'étreinte

This visually spectacular but shallow documentation of revered saint Amritananda Mayi, or Amma as she is known to millions in her native India, will probably end up as an important piece of film for her devotees, but really does not cater to those who are not already steeped in her spiritual beliefs. Detailing a brief, rare glimpse into the "hugging saint's" travels across the country, interviews and explanations take a back seat to being in the moment as Amma leads packed temples through prayer. While the strict observational tone works wonders for the atmosphere of the film and does compliment the inherent non-physical tone, the makers of this film sacrifice much with their mere visual representation. People who have not been immersed into the Amma lore, nor have a budding passion for enlightenment will only be able to take in this work as a glorified, alternative concert video of sorts, as we are basically led through a tour of temples the smiling one passes by to pray and hug with the tens of thousands of people who daily seek her unique embrace. These devotees will literally wait twenty hours to simply be hugged by this woman for a few seconds, seemingly receiving an elevated form of love, compassion, and acceptance that cannot be found in everyday life. It is this essence of embracing that is at the heart of the visual powerhouse that is this documentary. While touching and profound, the true hero of this film is undoubtedly Jan Kounen's incredible direction. What could have been a tiny niche film that does not even explore the intellectual ramifications of it's subject becomes instead one of the most visually splendid and immersed exports to come from India that I have ever seen. Making up for some of the repetitious ceremonial footage, Kounen's alternating city footage is both intimate and far reaching, giving viewers the beautifully dirty access to one of the worlds largest populations that has become glazed over in most Bollywood fare. The final result, though nothing of a conversion for the uninitiated, is still an appropriate tribute to one of the worlds most exalted spiritual leaders, and even more importantly a tribute to one of the worlds most exotic countries.

This film is one of the most inspiring films in my life. Excellent pictures, excellent sound and the main figure is simply mind-blowing ;-). She has the biggest charitable network a single woman ever created and her untiring efforts to uplift the poor, sick and suffering is recognized throughout the whole world.

The director gives an impression of Amma's turbulent life - in her spiritual center in Kerala, on her tour through North India and during the celebration of her 50th birthday. She counsels, organizes and hugs almost 24 hours per day, hardly getting any food, drink or sleep. Her charities are so efficiently reaching out to the poorest of society that even the President of India donated his income of ten months to Ammas organization. Unfortunately the charitable network is hardly mentioned in the film. Ammas world-tour are missing as well. But this is outweighed by wonderful pictures of India and deep insights into the Indian culture and lifestyle.

I loved watching this film; it gives you the sense that even among the poorest most squalid conditions we can find love. My heart soared watching love beam from Amma's face as she embraced thousands. The Christians say that heaven will be an eternity basking in God's love and I dismissed that idea until I saw this holy woman. I loved the scene where a man is on top of an elephant submerged in a river and he gently prods the roaring beast to the shore. "We have to fight our devils, greed arrogance and selfishness." This film transcends the description "movie." It's more of a "concentrated prayer." Prayer doesn't have a plot, but it peels away the resistance of the mind to the divine, like this film does. I saw the critics call it fawning, unenlightening, one sided, but prayer IS one sided, the side is love. If you're praying you don't think of negative things, you just bask.

No, this movie is not boring - it is riveting. I could not drag my eyes from the screen. I find India fascinating, and perhaps that is the key. This movie captures the magic of India, and that's enough for me. The feeling is of floating effortlessly through the crowds and temples and festivals, then standing close to a loving guru as her adoring fans embrace her, one by one. It is magical and touching and an unforgettable view of India. India is a tough place to visit, and most travel shows leave out the best parts. This movie captures the best of India, and leaves the plots and dramas, facts and figures for another day.

If you are expecting a glossy, high quality picture or travelogue of some of the magnificent sites of India, you will be sadly disappointed. The work of a true master in service to humanity is seldom glamorous. Any illusions to the contrary will be put firmly to rest in the very first scene. Those who miss the true impact of this movie, the fact that it's very beauty lies in its simplicity will have missed the big picture. This is the perfect metaphor for Amma, herself.

I have met Amma and received darshan several times. I will admit, that though I have always respected her efforts, I did have some question as to her true motives. This movie quelled any doubts that I may have had with regard to her authenticity. In the opening scene of the movie we see her perform something so shockingly compassionate, that a Western mind can hardly comprehend it.

I have never been to India. The stark reality of the living conditions in this region firmly reminds one to be grateful for life in these United States. Though it may sound illogical, in my humble estimation even the homeless appear to have it better here. It's not every day that we are thrust into "lifestyle of the citizens of an emerging nation." If the sole intention for making this film was to stir the mind as well as the heart, then it is worthy of an academy award.