How do you reconcile a commitment to non-violence when faced with violence? Why do the poor often seem happier than the rich? Must a society lose its traditions in order to move into the future?
These are some of the questions posed to His Holiness the Dalai Lama by filmmaker and explorer Rick Ray. Ray examines some of the fundamental questions of our time by weaving together observations from his own journeys throughout India and the Middle East, and the wisdom of an extraordinary spiritual leader. This is his story, as told and filmed by Rick Ray during a private visit to his monastery in Dharamsala, India over the course of several months.
Also included is rare historical footage as well as footage supplied by individuals who at great personal risk, filmed with hidden cameras within Tibet. Part biography, part philosophy, part adventure and part politics, 10 Questions for The Dalai Lama conveys more than history and more than answers - it opens a window into the heart of an inspiring man. Some have called him "the rock star of peace." The man known as the 14th Dalai Lama is both an extraordinary spiritual leader and the exiled head of Tibet. He's also a scholar, Nobel Peace Prize winner and humble Buddhist monk with a mischievous sense of humor who travels the world promoting compassion, tolerance and peace.
Cinematographer, writer and director Rick Ray has traveled the world to capture images of its peoples and cultures. He has produced twelve films on regions as diverse as Israel, Bali, Borneo, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Syria, and Iceland, with titles that include Raise the Bamboo Curtain with Martin Sheen and the highly regarded The Soul of India. Beyond trips to India to acquire footage for the film, Ray spent 2 years tracking down rare archival footage of the Dalai Lama's youth, the Chinese takeover, and the subsequent hardships. Ray feels honored to have had the opportunity to interview the Dalai Lama and bring the experiences to the screen.
