Watch Enlighten Up

Enlighten Up is a 2008 documentary film directed by Kate Churchill that follows a skeptical journalist named Nick Rosen as he journeys through the world of yoga in search of enlightenment. The film explores the philosophy and practice of yoga and raises questions about the authenticity of modern yoga practices, as well as the possibility of transformation through yoga.

The film begins with Rosen's introduction to his journey, where he outlines his skepticism towards yoga and his desire to understand the ancient practice. Churchill, an experienced yoga practitioner herself, agrees to take Rosen on a trip around the world, introducing him to various yoga instructors, schools, and communities. The pair travel through the United States, India, and even back to Rosen's hometown in England, exploring different facets of the yoga world.

Throughout the film, Rosen meets with a range of yoga teachers, from the well-known and established to the lesser-known and more experimental. He attends classes in traditional styles like Hatha and Iyengar, as well as newer styles like Jivamukti and AcroYoga. He also visits a number of ashrams and retreats, including one in the foothills of the Himalayas where he undertakes a ten-day silent meditation retreat.

The film is structured around Rosen's interactions with the various yoga instructors he encounters. Through these conversations, we see Rosen's skepticism begin to shift towards curiosity and openness, as he engages with the ideas and practices of yoga. At the same time, the instructors themselves are portrayed as complex figures, with their own stories, theories, and critiques of the contemporary yoga industry.

One of the key themes of Enlighten Up is the question of authenticity in modern yoga. Rosen is often skeptical of the commercialization and commodification of yoga, as well as the way yoga is marketed in the West as a quick-fix solution for stress and anxiety. He questions whether these practices have lost touch with their spiritual and philosophical roots, and whether they can truly be transformative.

However, the film also presents a more nuanced view of modern yoga, highlighting the diversity of approaches and the ways in which yoga can be adapted to different cultural contexts. We see yoga being used as a tool for social justice and community building, as well as a means of personal growth and healing.

Another key theme of Enlighten Up is the notion of transformation. Rosen's journey is framed as a quest for personal transformation, as he seeks to understand and experience the potential of yoga. We see him grappling with his own doubts and limitations, as well as the challenges of the different practices he tries. Ultimately, however, the film leaves open the question of whether such transformation is possible, or whether it is simply a myth perpetuated by the yoga industry.

Overall, Enlighten Up is an engaging and thought-provoking documentary that explores the world of yoga with intelligence and sensitivity. It raises important questions about the authenticity and potential of modern yoga, as well as the challenges and rewards of personal growth. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or a curious skeptic, this film is sure to offer you insights and inspiration.

Enlighten Up is a 2009 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.