Charming and brutal

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.

I just saw this last night at a private screening at the Coronet Cinema in Notting Hill, London with a Q&A with the film maker. I must say it was a lovely documentary which was well presented and well edited and the time flew by. One could argue it is not an objective piece but on the other hand it gives an honest portrayal of the Dalai Lama's thoughts and his strategy for peace and Tibet integration with China. It would be great if more people could get the opportunity to see it but I doubt a major UK broadcaster will air it either for fear of angering China or because not sensational enough to get monster ratings. It is like 'a day in the life of' docu but shot over 3 years. My personal recommendation is that everyone should watch it and take from it what they wish with the hope that the Dalai Lama's attitude is indeed infectious.