Watch The Oracle

The Oracle is a powerful documentary that immerses viewers in the ethereal world of divine prophecy and mysticism in the Tibetan plateau. Co-directed by two veteran filmmakers, Linda Hoaglund and Susan Kucera, this film provides an intimate glimpse into the rituals and customs of the revered State Oracle of Tibet, and his unique relationship with the Dalai Lama.

The story unfolds in the winter of 2011, as the Tibetan community awaits important messages from the Oracle regarding their future. The camera plunges us into the heart of the Potala Palace, the traditional seat of the Dalai Lama's government, as we witness a complex ceremony during which the Oracle enters into a trance-like state to channel supernatural forces.

Throughout the film, we catch a glimpse of the daily life of the mediums who serve as the intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm. These monks, who are remarkable for their discipline and austerity, give up their autonomy entirely during their training, enduring years of deprivation and rigorous physical and mental challenges.

The Oracle carefully selects these mediums for their exceptional abilities to connect with the divine. These men, who seem to exist in a world apart from the everyday concerns of regular people, carry a heavy burden of responsibility as they act as conduits between the spiritual and human worlds.

As the Oracle takes on his mantle of authority, we are transported to remote villages across the Himalayan Mountains, where it is the Oracle's words that will determine the fate of local people. The film beautifully captures the local culture and landscape, with its awe-inspiring vistas of stunning mountains and clear skies.

The Oracle is an exploration of the mystical and supernatural beliefs of the Tibetan people, and the film provides a unique perspective into the complex rituals and traditions of these ancient cultures. It is an enthralling journey that will leave audiences with a deeper understanding of the power of faith, and the mysterious forces that govern the human world.

As we watch the story of The Oracle unfold, we are reminded that despite the advanced knowledge systems we possess in modern times, there remains a deep sense of uncertainty about the future. The film prompts us to question our approach to faith and the divine, and how we can derive comfort and meaning from ancient beliefs that transcend time and space.

In sum, The Oracle is a beautifully crafted documentary, a culmination of the filmmakers' unique access to the world of Tibetan prophecy and divination. The film provides an exclusive look into the heart of a community that has been subject to political and social pressure and suggests that despite the vicissitudes of external culture and pressure, the spirit of a community is a force that transcends even the most formidable obstacles. It is a documentary that reminds us of our ability to connect with the divine in all its wonder, and the endless possibilities the universe holds for us.

The Oracle is a 2006 non-fiction movie with a runtime of 52 minutes.