Backdrop preview In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese backdrop
In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese

In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese (1998)

Oct 07, 1998 1h 25m Documentary

In Search of Kundun, a “making-of” documentary that is so much more, follows Scorsese as he plans his epic film and shoots in Morocco, and continues on to an audience with the Dalai Lama himself in the foothills of the Himalayas. Edited from over a hundred hours of footage, the documentary captures Scorsese’s fervor as a filmmaker and a man, the modest yet charismatic Dalai Lama, and the plight of the exiled Tibetans. -Denver Film Society

Directed by Michael Henry Wilson

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Michael Henry Wilson
Writer
  • Michael Henry Wilson
Producer
  • Michael Henry Wilson
  • T. Celal
  • Dale Ann Stieber
  • Jean Labib

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Thematic Analysis

In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Michael Henry Wilson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 125 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1998, when this film was released:
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Iron Fists and Kung Fu Kicks, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Paparazzi and Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker's Apocalypse explore similar territory, In Search of 'Kundun' with Martin Scorsese stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: October 7, 1998
  • Runtime: 1h 25m