Samsara (2023)

Apparently, in Sanskrit the word "Samsara" can mean both wandering and world and is generally used in the context of the reincarnation of a soul from one body to the next. That's what this engaging drama attempts to explore and explain over a couple of hours that contrasts quite remarkably the different approaches to the same end product taken by folks thousands of miles apart. From the monastic existences in Laos to far away Zanzibar, and using completely differing religious conduits, we see just how communities look at death and grief, but not as western cultures would perhaps identify them, but as merely stepping stones from and to somewhere else. Maybe better maybe worse - but certainly new, and not necessarily local, either. It's a simple philosophy that has stood these peoples in good stead over many years of war, oppression, famine and yet they still retain an optimism and an humanity that's positive in a pragmatic as well as a dogmatic manner. It's also quite quirky at times using an hybrid of styles of imagery (beware an hour or so in if you're photosensitive) and some quite enlightening conversation with and amongst ordinary people. At times it's borderline soporific, at others lively and vibrant - but what I found most of all is that it invites people to think. I haven't a religious bone in my body, but this isn't really about religion - or even faith, per se. It's about spirit and a community with our surroundings - and though I think it is too long, it's a film that leaves you with something to think about.