Fresh
This 2005 feature is demanding to say the least, but its pulse-slowing rhythms leave a real sense of peace.
J. R. Jones, Chicago Reader
Into Great Silence
A meditation on life. A contemplation of time. Silence. Repetition. Rhythm.
2005 · 2h 42m · Not Rated
Documentary
Directed by
Philip Gröning
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Into Great Silence
Overview
An intimate portrayal of the everyday lives of Carthusian monks of the Grande Chartreuse, high in the French Alps (Chartreuse Mountains). The idea for the film was proposed to the monks in 1984, but the Carthusians said they wanted time to think about it. The Carthusians finally contacted Gröning 16 years later to say they were now willing to permit Gröning to shoot the movie, if he was still interested.
Director and cast
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
88%
Tomatometer
Fresh
A transcendental piece of filmmaking.
Steven Rea, Philadelphia Inquirer
Fresh
As a place to enter and meditate, Into Great Silence is imminently worthy, but as a documentary, it doesn't do enough to probe the meaning of the quotation Groning returns to repeatedly: "Oh Lord, you have seduced me, and I was seduced."
Noel Murray, AV Club
Fresh
On a philosophical level, Into Great Silence emphasizes the virtues of the ascetic life, returning again and again to the idea of giving away all possessions in order to become a true disciple.
John Hartl, Seattle Times
Rotten
[Some] viewers are likely to consider this nearly three-hour, nearly soundless documentary as a chance to catch up on their sleep.
Jeff Strickler, Minneapolis Star Tribune
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