Buddha
An Indian prince leaves his world of comfort and riches behind to wander and meditate for six years in search of spiritual enlightenment. Siddartha (Cojoin Hong) turns his back on the old religion when people are starving needlessly and holy rituals include human sacrifices. During his meditations, he is tempted by erotic dancing women, demons, and the evil machinations of his criminal cousin. Devastate to attain the spiritual perfection and become the Buddha. He travels to convert followers by his kindness and wisdom, gaining a multitude of believers when he stops an elephant from crushing a local priest. Buddha of course goes on to become one of the great religious leaders of the world.
Insights
Plot Summary
This epic film chronicles the life of Siddhartha Gautama, from his royal upbringing and eventual renunciation of worldly possessions to his enlightenment and the founding of Buddhism. It depicts his struggles, teachings, and the profound impact he had on the world. The narrative follows his journey of self-discovery and his quest to alleviate human suffering.
Critical Reception
The film was a significant production, aiming to provide an accessible and respectful portrayal of a revered spiritual figure. While critical reception at the time of its release was modest in the West, it has since been recognized for its artistic merit and its ambitious scope in depicting Buddhist philosophy and history. It's often viewed as a respectful and visually rich adaptation.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its grand scale and visual presentation.
- Considered a respectful and comprehensive depiction of Buddha's life.
- Notable for its historical and spiritual narrative.
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Fun Fact
The film was produced by Toei Animation and directed by Kenji Misumi, who also directed many entries in the popular Zatoichi film series.
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