Watch The Portal

The Portal is a touching and thought-provoking documentary that explores the transformative power of meditation and mindfulness. Directed by Jacqui Fifer and produced by Tom Cronin, the film features a diverse cast of individuals who share their personal journeys of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. At the heart of the film is a scientific experiment conducted at Stanford University, led by James Doty. Doty is a neurosurgeon and founder of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education at Stanford. The experiment involves using a cutting-edge technology called the Cutting Edge Frequency Generator (CEFG) to induce a state of deep meditation in subjects. The goal is to understand whether this state of consciousness can help individuals overcome personal traumas and achieve greater levels of compassion and empathy.

The film features interviews with several subjects who participated in the Stanford study, including Kitra Cahana and her father Ronnie Cahana. Kitra is a photojournalist who has covered conflicts and crises around the world. Her father is a successful businessman who suffered a devastating stroke that left him paralyzed and unable to speak. Through their experiences with the CEFG and the practice of meditation, both Kitra and Ronnie discover new sources of strength and resilience.

Other subjects in the film include a former NFL player who struggled with addiction and depression, a young woman who survived a traumatic brain injury, and a group of entrepreneurs who have found success and happiness through mindfulness practices.

Throughout the film, viewers are treated to stunning visuals and a haunting, ethereal score by composer David Balshaw. In addition to the Stanford study, the film explores various spiritual traditions and practices, from Tibetan Buddhism to Vedic meditation. Experts in the field, such as Deepak Chopra and Eckhart Tolle, offer insights and wisdom on the power of the mind and the interconnectedness of all things.

At its core, The Portal is a film about hope and transformation. It shows us that no matter how challenging our circumstances, we all have the ability to tap into our inner resources and find peace and connection. Whether you are a seasoned meditator, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this film is sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted.

Overall, The Portal is a must-see film for anyone interested in exploring the human condition and seeking greater meaning in life. It is a powerful reminder that there is always a way forward, even in the face of adversity.