Genre: Documentary
Director: Nati Baratz
Cast: Tenzin Zopa
RunTime: 1 hr 42 mins
Released By: Cathay-Keris Films
Rating: PG
Official Website:

Opening Day: 27 May 2010 Exclusively at The Picturehouse

Synopsis:

Visually stunning and emotionally gripping, UNMISTAKEN CHILD is the first real time documentation of the search for a reincarnated master, revealed to us through the eyes of a sincere and passionate Buddhist disciple... In 2001, Master Lama Konchog, one of the greatest Tibetan mediators of our times, passed away. His shy and devoted disciple, Tenzin Zopa is unexpectedly appointed by the Dalai Lama to search for the reincarnation of the late master. Assisted by astrology, signs in dreams and the whispers of villagers, Tenzin travels by helicopter, mule and foot to look for the unmistaken child. The ensuing quest transforms Tenzin from a modest servant into a spiritual leader, only to become a servant again once the child is found...

Movie Review:

There are occasions in life when we feel down and out, when we feel depressed over life’s many failures, when we simply do not see the point of carrying on with life anymore. Though debatable, these are occasions when we turn to religion for help. And our understanding of religion often uplifts our soul into pressing forward, into seeing things in a different light, and living life because of all its wonderful moments. So when a somewhat religious film like this comes along, we took the opportunity to embrace it, knowing that it would not be the easiest review to write because of our lack of knowledge in the subject matter.

Fortunately, as we found out, this documentary has a universal theme which not only touches our hearts, it enlightens us to understand life on a whole new level.

The film takes us on a journey to Nepal where a young monk Tenzin Zopa searches for venerable monk Geshe Lama Konchog’s reincarnation after he dies. After a few futile attempts, Tenzin Zopa reaches a breathtakingly beautiful place called the Tsum Valley where he finds a young boy of the right age who responds to Konchog's possessions. After the boy passes several tests, he is taken to meet the Dalai Lama.

Like any other film with a story arc, viewers will be watching this 102 minute picture to find out, whether the boy is really Konchong’s reincarnation, whether his parents agree to let him go to the monastery, and ultimately, how will the child respond? This also means that audiences who are unfamiliar with Buddhism will also be drawn into this compelling tale of a student fulfilling his duties to find his teacher’s reincarnation. Above this search, one would also be treated to a portrait of a complex and intriguing religious system where spiritual energy and faith brings about peace and tranquility.

Watch how Tenzin Zopa treks across unforgiving terrain, visiting various families and reminiscing about his teacher’s life during his meditation years. Watch how the young monk’s track shoes cover the rocky roads and how his haversack provides him with what he needs on this challenging journey. Viewers would feel his determination and resolution as he displays his strength of mind to complete his search of a lifetime.

From the film, one can also get to know Tenzin Zopa for the man he is, as he shares his thoughts and feelings with director Nati Baratz. The occasional humour and mischief shows us that underneath this monk who seems to be from another time and place, is a human being who is overwhelmingly living among our midst.

Credit also goes to cinematographer Yaron Orbach who travelled with Tenzin Zopa on this journey, presenting some of the most visually stunning backdrops ever captured on film. Take note though, that this is not a high budgeted Hollywood production where every shot is perfectly executed. It is the rawness of these shots which brings about the powerful emotions of this arduous journey which took place some nine years ago.

Then there is the unmistaken child in question. He is an adorable boy who plays with toy cars and airplanes. He is a cheeky boy who complains when his hair is being shaven. And above all, he is the child who will set you thinking about the powers of religion and its place in today’s fast moving society. In the rural, untouched and remote regions of the world, what is it that the inhabitants have to lead such spiritually enriching lives?

Movie Rating:



(This sincere documentary promises you an incredible journey of spiritual peace and tranquility)

Review by John Li