Richard Gere Creates Film Tribute to Mentor and Favorite Uncle, Dalai Lama
Hollywood actor Richard Gere has crafted a film tribute dedicated to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, approaching his 90th birthday. This project serves to honor the Dalai Lama, who is both a spiritual leader and a mentor to Gere.
Dalai Lama’s Message: Compassion in a Chaotic World
The film tackles pressing issues such as negative emotions and self-centeredness. Gere emphasizes that these traits are not inherently tied to identity or political alignment. They are mental states that individuals can influence and alter.
Gere notes that the Dalai Lama advocates for the inherent kindness and compassion within all individuals. He believes society often fails to recognize this, presenting a harsh, competitive world instead. This depiction fosters distrust, fear, and anger among people, illustrating a dissonant reality where negativity prevails.
A Time for Reflection
The opening scenes feature the Dalai Lama discussing the challenging century ahead. With growing global tensions, Gere feels this film is especially timely. It invites audiences to pause and reflect on their lives, encouraging a search for positivity and understanding.
- Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday is a focal point of the film.
- The film acts as a metaphorical “medicine” for society’s ills.
- It calls for personal responsibility in creating a better world.
Gere illustrates the Dalai Lama’s dedication to his spiritual practice, waking at 3:30 AM daily for meditation. This commitment highlights the contrast between the Dalai Lama’s discipline and the common struggle people face in finding even a few minutes for self-reflection.
Humanizing a Global Icon
In the editing process, Gere chose to include moments that reveal the Dalai Lama’s humanity. He recalls a scene where the Dalai Lama receives assistance to sit down during an interview, showcasing a relatable side of this public figure.
This film aims to inspire viewers to aspire to attributes such as peace, happiness, and compassion. It advocates for individual change as a precursor to societal evolution, aligning closely with the Dalai Lama’s enduring message of love and understanding.
