10 Documentaries That Explore Faith

Description: This documentary provides an inside look at an evangelical Christian summer camp where children are taught to become dedicated Christian soldiers in "God's Army." It raises questions about indoctrination, faith, and the role of religion in politics.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, sparking controversy for its portrayal of evangelical Christianity.

Description: Narrated by Richard Gere, this documentary traces the life of Siddhartha Gautama, from his birth to his enlightenment, offering insights into the teachings of Buddhism. It's a comprehensive look at one of the world's major religions.

Fact: The film was produced by David Grubin, known for his work on historical documentaries, ensuring a detailed and respectful portrayal of Buddha's life and teachings.

Description: Featuring Richard Dawkins and Lawrence Krauss, this documentary examines atheism and skepticism, providing a counterpoint to faith-based documentaries. It explores the scientific worldview and the role of reason in understanding the universe.

Fact: The film includes interviews with prominent scientists and thinkers, offering a robust discussion on the absence of faith.

Description: This film takes viewers inside the Grande Chartreuse, the head monastery of the Carthusian order, where monks live in almost complete silence. It's a meditative journey into the life of contemplation and solitude, offering a rare glimpse into a world where silence is a form of prayer.

Fact: The film was shot over a period of six months, with the director, Philip Gröning, living with the monks to capture their daily life. It has no narration, music, or interviews, relying solely on the ambient sounds of the monastery.

Description: This film documents the lives of gay and lesbian Muslims around the world, exploring the conflict between their faith and their sexual orientation. It's a poignant look at how faith can both divide and unite communities.

Fact: The film was banned in several Muslim-majority countries due to its subject matter, highlighting the tension between personal faith and societal norms.

Description: Kumaré follows Vikram Gandhi, who poses as an Indian guru in America to see if he can create a following based on made-up teachings. This documentary explores the nature of belief and the power of faith, even when it's based on deception.

Fact: Gandhi, who has a background in religious studies, decided to reveal his true identity at the end of the film, leading to profound discussions about faith and authenticity.

Description: Simon Reeve travels along some of the world's most famous pilgrimage routes, exploring how faith drives people to undertake these journeys. From the Camino de Santiago to the Hajj, this series offers a global perspective on pilgrimage.

Fact: Reeve, known for his travel documentaries, brings a personal touch to the exploration of faith, making it accessible to a broad audience.

Description: This film explores the concept of forgiveness through various stories, including those of Holocaust survivors, victims of violence, and individuals seeking reconciliation. It delves into how faith can play a role in the process of forgiveness.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with Desmond Tutu, who discusses the importance of forgiveness in post-apartheid South Africa.

Description: Set in Bhutan, this documentary follows a monk who, in his quest for enlightenment, ends up with an antique gun, leading to a series of humorous and enlightening events. It's a unique exploration of faith through the lens of Bhutanese culture.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in Bhutan, showcasing the country's unique approach to modernization while preserving its spiritual traditions.

Description: This documentary follows a Westerner's journey into the world of shamanism in Siberia, exploring ancient spiritual practices and their relevance in the modern world. It's a deep dive into a faith system that predates organized religion.

Fact: The film includes rare footage of shamanic rituals, offering viewers an authentic look at practices that are often misunderstood or misrepresented.