Watch Blessings: The Tsoknyi Nangchen Nuns of Tibet

Blessings: The Tsoknyi Nangchen Nuns of Tibet is a 2009 documentary film that sheds light on the lives of nuns living in a remote region of Tibet. The movie, directed by Victress Hitchcock, follows the journey of Richard Gere as he travels to the nunnery and learns about the unique challenges and joys that these women face in their daily lives.

The nuns who live in the Tsoknyi Nangchen nunnery are devoted to the teachings of the Tsoknyi Rinpoche, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist master. They are tending to over 800 years of lineage that boasts an unbroken succession of female spiritual masters, including the current Tsoknyi Rinpoche's mother, who was a renowned master of the 20th century.

The film begins with Richard Gere's visit to the nunnery, where he is humbled by the simplicity of the nuns' lifestyle and their devotion to their faith. The nuns live in basic living conditions without any modern facilities; their days begin early, and they spend several hours in meditation and prayer. The nuns sustain themselves by engaging in agricultural work, such as growing barley, millet, and vegetables.

As the documentary unfolds, viewers learn about the struggles that these nuns face. Women's rights in Tibet are still a far cry from the rest of the world, and this is mirrored in the lives of the nuns. They battle against discrimination and low regard from society, who perceive nuns as inferior compared to male monks.

Despite the ongoing challenges, the nuns in Tsoknyi Nangchen nunnery embody resilience, hope and gentle joyfulness, which comes through when Hitchcock focuses on the nuns' interactions with each other. The camera captures the bond between the nuns, who live, learn, and practice together as a cohesive unit. Their sisterhood is demonstrated in their care and support for one another. From playful exchanges at mealtimes to deeper conversations touching on their spiritual experiences, the viewer gets an intimate look at the human connections that bind this community.

The film also highlights the strength and spirit of the nuns, both individually and as a group. The women are incredibly skillful, witty, and passionate about their faith. We hear their stories, learn about their frustrations, and, ultimately, admire their courage in standing up for what they believe in.

However, the film is not just about the obstacles that the nuns face; rather, it provides a deeper insight into the beauty of their faith, its culture, and its history. Through ritual ceremonies, such as chanting and prayer, the nuns showcase their devotion to their faith, which speaks to the viewer's spirit. The gorgeous mountain scenery and the vibrant colours of traditional Tibetan attire make it an immersive experience.

The documentary highlights many themes, including the power of devotion, the resilience of the human spirit, and the potential for transformation. The nuns' stories showcase the depth of their souls and their unwavering faith in a higher power. The film presents a powerful message of hope, reminding viewers that true strength comes from within. There are also themes of reproductive rights, activism, and women's empowerment.

In conclusion, Blessings: The Tsoknyi Nangchen Nuns of Tibet is a fascinating and beautifully filmed documentary. It offers an insight into the rich culture and spiritual practices of the nuns of Tsoknyi Nangchen, showing an up-close look at the lives of the nuns, their hardships, and their incredible devotion to their faith. Directed by Hitchcock and featuring Richard Gere, the film's main focus is on the nuns, but the camera work brings the nunnery to life, highlighting its beauty and serenity. The film ends with a beautiful message of hope and resilience, assuring the viewer that it is never too late to find one's inner strength.

Blessings: The Tsoknyi Nangchen Nuns of Tibet is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.