The Venerable W.

This documentary offers an unflinching look at Ashin Wirathu, a radical Buddhist monk from Myanmar, who is known for his virulent anti-Muslim rhetoric. Director Barbet Schroeder interviews Wirathu extensively, allowing him to articulate his extremist views. The film explores the complex socio-political and religious landscape of Myanmar, raising questions about tolerance and extremism within the Buddhist faith.

The Venerable W. received mixed to positive reviews, with critics often acknowledging its disturbing subject matter and the director's bold approach in confronting a controversial figure. While some praised its importance in shedding light on a critical issue, others found it to be a challenging and at times uncomfortable viewing experience due to the graphic nature of Wirathu's pronouncements.

• A disturbing but important look at religious extremism.

• Schroeder's unflinching camera captures the chilling rhetoric of its subject.

• Provokes thought about the intersection of religion, politics, and hate speech.

Google audience: Google users generally found the documentary to be a thought-provoking and disturbing examination of religious extremism. Many appreciated the film's courage in tackling such a sensitive topic and allowing the subject's own words to reveal his hateful ideology. Some viewers expressed discomfort with the explicit nature of the content, while others underscored its necessity in understanding contemporary issues in Myanmar.

Nominated for the Golden Eye at the Zurich Film Festival.

Director Barbet Schroeder had previously directed a documentary about a Buddhist monk in the 1970 film 'The Valley of the Vultures'.