of gods and the men who would like to become them.

I believe that, ultimately, this film highlights that religious conviction and it’s corresponding practices (both good and evil) are determined by the humans willing to entertain them. In particular, the practice of religious radicalism was juxtaposed nicely. On the one hand, we have a group of men willing to kill for their beliefs. On the other, we have a group of men willing to die for them. The film did a wonderful job displaying the consequences of each decision.

What I appreciated: the unobtrusive, repetitive, and stark depiction of the monk’s routine. Simplicity is profound. The only soundtrack provided in the entire film was that of the monk’s chants; there was nothing familiar (in the way of sound) to manipulate the audience’s emotions or thoughts. The only instance of music is when one of the monk's played Allegretto (Beethoven Symphony No.7) during the dinner. Singing is a vehicle for the devout to carry their words and prayers to God; it's only natural that he decided it should be the vehicle to bring everything back. Quite honestly, it ranks as one of the more powerful scenes I have seen in years. Joy for one another’s company, transitioning into a quiet remorse when the strings begin to grow somber, and then, finally, the realization that their deaths are inevitable. Each individual reacted differently – some smiled, some cried, some stared. It was at this time that they came to terms with their greatest turmoil: in order to be with God, one must die.

I really enjoyed the film's cinematography -- long, quiet scenes that were always well framed. Nothing was forced. The final shot, all one take, was equally powerful. We witnessed men of God being led by men of God to be with Him. One wonders if they, at that time, wanted nothing more than humanity. The environment of the monastery led to shots of unavoidable beauty. How difficult it must be to confront despair, turmoil and chaos objectively when your surroundings are so tranquil, full of life, and beautiful.

What I didn’t appreciate: the fact that very little background was given into why they were there. From personal experience, I know that for every deed in the name of God, there is an institution that will lay claim to it. Missionaries are placed in areas in order to drive conversion, yet the film didn't convey that. I also wholeheartedly find fault in their final decision. In one of the final exchanges between one of the elders and the priest, a woman exclaims, "You are the branch. If you go, we lose our footing." Despite being affected by this comment, their self-sacrifice simply allowed that branch to break. How could men who value life so much fail to plant a new tree before leaving?

1-10 rating: 8.5…