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“Free. Journey to the Interior” is a Spanish documentary film from 2023 directed by Santos Blanco, which had its Polish premiere on May 31, 2024. The film takes the viewer on a journey to twelve contemplative monasteries that are closed to the public on a daily basis, offering a unique insight into the lives of monks and nuns who have chosen a life of seclusion and prayer.
Encouraged by Sister Gaudi Skass’s recommendation, I waited for the film’s DVD release.
Reviewers emphasize that the film is an extraordinary experience, moving and at times shocking. It is compared to Philip Gröning’s “Into Great Silence,” though it differs in approach – while Gröning’s film is dominated by silence, Blanco’s features the voices of the monastics who share their reflections on spiritual life and the choice of the contemplative path.
The film certainly prompts reflection on the meaning of life, freedom, and the search for harmony in a world full of chaos and materialism. Through idyllic images of nature and the daily work of the monastics, the viewer has the opportunity to reflect on their own life and values.
“Free. Journey to the Interior” is a film worth watching by everyone, especially if one seeks deeper content and reflection on the modern world and spirituality.
Reader, watch the film, even though in my opinion it lacks the depth of presenting monastic life that we encounter when watching Philip Gröning’s film ”Into Great Silence,” which is my favorite film on this topic.
Some viewers express disappointment, pointing out certain inaccuracies and limitations in presenting the topic.
In a review on the misyjne.pl portal, the author admits that the film does not provide answers to the question of why in the 21st century people choose to live in monastic seclusion, which may leave the viewer with a sense of dissatisfaction. The film left me with that same dissatisfaction after watching it.
In summary, although “Free. Journey to the Interior” offers a unique insight into contemplative life, some viewers may find it lacking deeper understanding of the motivations and daily life of the monastics, which affects the film’s reception. In my opinion, the themes of silence, contemplation, and prayer were also presented somewhat superficially. However, I have the impression that every time I watch this film, I discover something valuable in it for myself. My personal rating of the film is 4/5.
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