Becoming Who I Was

Becoming Who I Was is a fascinating and soul-touching South Korean documentary film directed by Moon Chang-Yong and Jeon Jin. Released in 2017, the movie stars Angdu Padma and Rigzin Urgain, who portray themselves in their real-life journey. The observational documentary blends together the themes of the spiritual journey, rebirth, fate, love, and destiny amidst the panoramic landscapes of Ladakh, India, wound with the intrinsic tapestry of Buddhist beliefs and practices.

The narrative revolves around the life of a young boy named Padma Angdu, who is identified as Rinpoche, a Tibetan term for 'precious one' that is generally given to learned lamas who are considered to be reincarnations of previously enlightened teachers. The early stages of the movie document its young protagonist's life in a monastery, where he stays for five years. However, destiny stops him short in his journey to become a monk as it can't be confirmed by an official committee whether he is indeed the rebirth of enlightened lama, which ultimately leaves him ostracised and alienated.

Possessing an emotional depth that pulls right at the heartstrings, Becoming Who I Was documents the extraordinary journey of Angdu, who despite his young age, grapples with his identity and sense of displacement in a society that won't fully accept his reincarnation claims. His journey offers a vivid exploration of an otherwise unseen part of the world and a seldom-understood part of the Buddhist tradition.

Despite the immense trials and tribulations Angdu faces, he’s not alone as he navigates this unusual path. His guardian and teacher, Urgain Rigzin, fills the role of his steadfast emotional support system. He is portrayed as a figure of unconditional love and care, who guides Angdu, molding him into his destined spiritual role despite their adverse circumstances. The strong bond between Angdu and his guardian Urgain forms the emotional backbone of the film.

While their camaraderie is deeply heartening, the movie does not just revolve around the relationship between the two leading figures. It also profoundly details their struggles of being geographically uprooted from Tibet and forced to exist within the politically challenging spaces of Ladakh in India. The bittersweet tale unfolds as both Urgain and Angdu make their way, striving towards their dreams amidst their challenging conditions, painting a raw and unfiltered picture of life in their rugged surroundings, tangled with political, cultural, and religious complications.

Although the film has an overarching spiritual theme, Becoming Who I Was is more than just a documentary about reincarnation; it's a timeless tale about human resilience, courage, and the power of unwavering determination. It speaks volumes about the perseverance of the human spirit, the love between a guardian and his ward, and the multi-faceted struggles of displacement and identity.

The cinematography of the film is nothing short of breathtaking as it captures the stark beauty of Ladakh, juxtaposing it perfectly against the journey of the young protagonist. The viewers are treated to the stunning vast landscapes marked by snow-capped mountains, arid deserts, and scattered settlements, adding another dimension to the viewing experience. The vivid visuals skillfully mingle with the intricacies of the narrative, further amplifying the emotional impact.

Equipped with a simple narrative structure, Becoming Who I Was allows the audience to fully immerse themselves in the intimate internal and external journeys of the protagonists, while bringing out the themes of faith, spirituality, and their real-world implications in full bloom. Moreover, the film offers a rare, engaging reflection on Tibetan Buddhism and its understanding of reincarnation, made accessible and relatable through the compelling journey of its young Rinpoche.

In conclusion, Becoming Who I Was, is a beautiful, poignant journey that compassionately blends personal struggles with spiritual quests. It is a heartrending portrayal of devotion, sacrifice, parental love, and relentless spiritual pursuit, brought to life with remarkable performances, wonderful storytelling, and stunning visuals. It's a deeply moving, introspective work of art that gives a rare glimpse into a fascinating culture encapsulated in a deeply human experience.