The Answer

The Answer, released in 2015, is a compelling biographical drama that tells the inspiring journey of James Donald Walters, later known as Swami Kriyananda. Portraying Reverand Walters is Australian television and film actor, Leonidas Gulaptis, who magnificently brings to life the spiritual odyssey of the protagonist. The movie also stars the versatile Indian actor Victor Banerjee, who delivers a commendable portrayal of Paramhansa Yogananda, the Indian yogi and guru who exposes James to Kriya Yoga and spiritual enlightenment. This internationally-co-produced film focuses primarily on the bond between a devotee and his spiritual guru that extends beyond mere discipleship to a boundless spiritual union.

Well regarded for his work in television series and films such as the ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D ‘ series and ‘The Answer,' Leonidas Gulaptis's portrayal of Walters is both compelling and sensitive. He provides the audience a sincere and heartfelt performance, embodying Walters' profound spiritual transformation with authenticity and depth. Gulaptis adeptly mirrors the character's humility, vulnerability, and eventual profound spiritual awakening, through his expressive acting and charisma.

Victor Banerjee, an established actor internationally recognized for his work in classics like 'A Passage to India', steals the show with his portrayal of the mystical yogi Paramhansa Yogananda. Banerjee blends tranquillity, wisdom, and a subtle charisma into a character who profoundly impacts Walters' spiritual journey. He draws on his extensive acting experience to impactfully portray a spiritual leader who has inspired millions worldwide.

The Answer is set in the mid-20th century and centers around James Donald Walters, a young American in search of spiritual fulfillment. The background narration by Walters (Gulaptis) leads the viewer on his journey of self-discovery. The narrative plays out in a nonlinear manner, which moves back and forth in time, adding an element of depth and intrigue to the story.

Post-World War II, Walters is shown stumbling upon a book titled 'Autobiography of a Yogi' by Paramhansa Yogananda. This chance encounter leads Walters to attend Yogananda's sermon in Los Angeles. The stirring teachings of Yogananda resonate deeply with Walters, who recognizes in him the fulfillment of his lifelong quest. Against all odds, Walters seeks and earns Yogananda's approval to become his disciple.

With a backdrop in Los Angeles and India, the film uses exquisite cinematic shots to draw vivid and beautiful landscapes. It is not just the spiritual journey within that is visually stunning to the audience, but also the physical landscapes that mirror the soul's journey in their vastness and serenity. Through exquisite cinematography, the movie strikingly captures the spiritual concept of vastness within the human soul.

The film’s title, The Answer, materialises to be the answer to Walters’ quest for spiritual wisdom and personal fulfillment. All through Walters's journey, the film sensitively handles the universal quest for self-realization and inner peace. It efficiently explores the profound influence of spiritual understanding on one's life and essentially answers the question that underlies every human endeavour - the purpose of existence.

The Answer offers a transformative experience not just through Walters's spiritual journey but also through its exploration of human bonds, especially between Walters and Paramhans Yogananda. Their relationship evolves from a devotee-guru relationship to one of profound spiritual companionship. The bond they share, nurtured by Yogananda's benevolence and Walters’ surrender, forms the very crux of the movie.

The Answer, directed by Pavan Kaul, is a beautiful cinematographic representation of the spiritual journey of one individual. This film is especially engaging to those with an interest in spirituality or philosophy, or those who appreciate a well-narrated story of personal growth and self-discovery.

To summarize, The Answer is a genuinely heart-touching portrayal of spiritual awakening and self-discovery, navigating through the unique relationship between a devotee and his spiritual guru. With its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances, The Answer succeeds in leaving a profound impression of introspective wisdom on its audience.