Watch Brilliant Moon

Brilliant Moon is a stunning documentary film about Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, one of the most prominent and revered Tibetan Buddhist masters of the 20th century. Narrated by Richard Gere, who is himself a devout Buddhist and one of Rinpoche's followers, the film provides a detailed and intimate portrayal of Rinpoche's life, teachings, and impact on modern Buddhism, as told through the eyes of his contemporaries, disciples, and family members.

The film begins by tracing Rinpoche's early life in Tibet, where he was recognized as a reincarnate lama at a young age and began his training in the rigorous rigors of Buddhist meditation and philosophy. Through the use of rare archival footage and interviews with those who knew him in his youth, the film gives a vivid sense of Rinpoche's character, his extraordinary insights, and his devotion to his guru.

As the film progresses, we see Rinpoche's gradual rise to prominence within the Tibetan Buddhist community, culminating in his appointment as the head of one of the most important schools of Tibetan Buddhism, the Nyingma tradition. Along the way, we are introduced to some of the key figures in Rinpoche's life, including his own guru, Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok, and his close friend, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Despite the many challenges and obstacles he faced in his life, Rinpoche remained unwavering in his commitment to his students and his mission. He was known for his powerful teachings on compassion, wisdom, and the transformation of the mind, and for his ability to relate to people from all walks of life with profound insight and empathy.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is its stunning visuals. Shot on location across Tibet, India, Nepal, and Bhutan, the film showcases the awe-inspiring landscapes, monasteries, and sacred sites that Rinpoche visited during his life. We see the Himalayan mountaintops, the bustling markets of Kathmandu, and the serene forests of Bhutan, all of which serve as a vivid backdrop to Rinpoche's teachings and the work of his students.

Throughout the film, we are also treated to some wonderful musical treats from one of Rinpoche's Western disciples, the legendary rock musician, Lou Reed, who composed a hauntingly beautiful score for the film. Reed's music evokes the transcendental quality of Rinpoche's teachings and adds an ethereal dimension to the visuals.

Overall, Brilliant Moon is a thought-provoking, inspiring, and visually stunning documentary that offers a deep and personal insight into one of the great spiritual masters of our time. Whether you are a devout Buddhist or simply interested in learning more about Tibet and its rich spiritual heritage, this film is an absolute must-see. Highly recommended.