Ram Dass, Going Home

Ram Dass, Going Home is an enlightening 2017 documentary that scales the spiritual journey of Ram Dass, who was born as Richard Alpert. The film, which runs for 31 minutes, captures the life of Ram Dass at his Maui residence, as he poignantly embraces his physical condition and the inevitability of death, thereby gifting viewers with enduring messages on love, life, and death.

The film is a deeply personal exploration of Ram Dass's dialogue with mortality, consciousness, and spirituality. In defeating both spiritual and existential quandaries, Ram Dass drives the audience toward a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be alive, and the wisdom that comes with accepting mortality for what it is—a part of life.

The film begins with an introduction to Ram Dass, former Harvard psychology professor, turned influential spiritual teacher. It takes viewers into his tranquil and temple-like abode in Maui, where they are given a sweeping view of his peaceful, awe-inspiring environment. Lush green landscape, radiant sunlight, and the placid blue ocean encapsulates his house, setting the backdrop for an unhurried meditation on existence, a reflection of the clarity of thought that Maharishi Ram Dass seeks to instill.

As Ram Dass navigates the day-to-day in spite of his physical handicap (owing to a stroke he suffered), he exhibits an astounding level of acceptance and indefatigable spirit, inspiring every viewer. His narration extends past the realms of everyday concerns and engulfs the audience in a calming wave of spiritual mindfulness. What makes Ram Dass's storytelling so compelling is his incredibly warm approach to spirituality. There is a palpable sense of freedom and peace instilled in the way he openly embraces mortality without fear.

An important aspect of the film is the mesh of striking visuals and the rich, grounding narrative. Ram Dass speaks directly to viewers from his wheelchair, welcoming them into his life with open arms and candid teachings, with scenes of charity, empathy-filled interactions with his Maui community, and thought-provoking dialogues. The film takes the effort to highlight his journey rather than dwell on the finality of life, gently guiding the viewer to face the prospect of dissolution unintimidated.

The captivating cinematography heightens the allure of the film. Never rushing, it harmonizes with tropical Maui's life rhythms, meandering between the anomalies of everyday existence and matters profound. Viewers are served with a compelling visual feast as it captures the splendors of the location in its full magnificence.

The makers of the film have embarked on the challenge of considering spirituality and death through the lens of an icon in New Age spirituality and have met their goal with grace and elegance. Director Derek Peck maintains a light hand, letting the narrative breathe and evolve organically to create a serene and meditative atmosphere. His careful handling of the deep subject matter ensures that the film is never preachy, and the level-headed and profoundly resonant words have an effect attributable to Ram Dass's resounding voice and understandings.

An original Netflix documentary, Ram Dass, Going Home is a gentle, contemplative film capturing the final chapter of one of the most profound spiritual teachers of our time. It presents the death of the physical body not as the inevitable end, but as a transition from one state of being to another. In a world that considers talking about death taboo, this meditative journey addresses it with a sense of tranquility and openness, easing viewers into a space of acceptance and understanding.

This transformative film is an absolute must-watch for those interested in spiritual discovery, consciousness, and personal transformation. It is a rare treat and rightfully celebrated as an ode to life and death, in undiscriminating duality. So, as you embark upon the viewing of this soulful journey, prepare yourself for a profound and enlightening experience.

In summary, Ram Dass, Going Home is a powerful, inspirational, and poignant reflection on life and death. Through the teachings of Ram Dass, it subtly weaves existential exploration into its narrative, casting its spell on viewers. A snapshot of his commitment to embracing everything that life brings forth, even death, it presents a spiritual journey that goes beyond the physical world, offering a way to understand life's ultimate mystery—death.