These films will blow your mind

Rarely when we see a film are we moved to think about our very existence, our place in the Universe, the purposes of Mankind, time and space, or the mind of God. But sometimes, films are made that do just that - rise above the level of being mere movies and excel to the height of cinematic art that moves the viewer to contemplate the Bigger Picture. A certain group of films, done in a unique documentary style, actually succeed in moving our minds and souls.

The works of noted filmmakers Godfrey Reggio and Ron Fricke incorporate a unique and original style of filmmaking in telling the story of the world around us and our place in it. Called the "Qatsi" style, after Reggio's "Qatsi Trilogy," these films are docs that utilize striking moving imagery (sweeping cinematography, time lapse footage) married to profound musical accompaniment. Fricke, who worked on Reggio's films, now makes his own works in the style.

There are no words of narration, no interviews, and no actors - in fact, the only spoken element are those sung by the filmed cultures. The best way to describe watching a film done in this style is like watching (and listening to) a decade's worth of moving National Geographic magazines over the course of a few short hours. These films takes years to make. They are overwhelming and stimulating.

While best viewed on the big screen, viewing these little-known cinematic masterpieces are a life-altering experience and total head trip (without the need of stimulants). One will not be the same afterwards. Guaranteed. In fact, a semi-religious "cult" of fans has surfaced around these films. Called "The Qatsi Cult" devotees watch and worship these works as a way to achieve higher consciousness and meaning out of life.

These films are not random images of the world, nor boring photography of cultural sites. They are alive. And they have themes and an order that convey a thesis of thought. Reggio intended this as he was once a religious monk. Thus, as the films unfold, they EVOLVE and force us to evolve as we reach greater understanding. It's like trying to achieve a kind of Nirvana from watching a movie! It's an epiphany through film entertainment.

The so-called "Qatsi Trilogy" are the three films made by Reggio: "Koyaanisqatsi" (1983), "Powaqqatsi" (1988), and "Nogoyqatsi" (2002). The titles, and the film's themes, refer to Hopi Indian words describing different aspects of life and existence: balance, transformation, and war (struggle).

"Koyaanisqatsi" (1983), means "Life Out of Balance" in Hopi. It is a visual time-trip that explores the rise from the natural towards the frenetic technological world we live in. It makes you feel like a mere insect traveling on a ball of mud we call Earth. Or like a cog in a machine, or a circuit on a board. It puts thing into perspective.

"Powaqqatsi" (1988), means "Life In transformation" in the Hopi language. It further explores the man/nature/technology question by focusing on the World's cultures - especially the Third World's. It forces you to realize that you are in, and a part, of a culture. Whether you like it or not.

"Nagoyqatsi" (2002) means "Life As War." The cultural exploration of the previous film is taken to it's natural extension through an exploration of human warfare. Differences in culture lead to conflict. Nature is conflict. It contends that war is the natural disaster from the technological. Man and nature at war with each other and themselves. Profound.

Higher meaning and thought, regardless of one's politics or religious beliefs, enter the mind of the viewer upon seeing these films. Anyone, and everyone, who views these will be affected by them. It is not recommended to see this trilogy in one sitting (or watching them under some chemical influence) - your mind cannot take it!

Reggio's protege, Ron Fricke, now makes his own visually styled documentaries of higher consciousness. His best works are "Baraka" (1992) and "The Living Sea" (1995). The imagery, cultures, technology, music, and interesting cinematography in these films carry on the Qatsi Style.

"Baraka" (1992), is a stunning travelogue that takes you to the ends of the world and to the depths of your soul. The symbolism is rampant and deals with the very issues of life, death, and meaning. You can never view this the same way twice. And it will make you cry. A masterpiece.

"The Living Sea" (1995) is an IMAX film that demonstrates the idea that the oceans are connected together as one living being. Time-lapse photography abounds as we see the seas move and pulsate like an organic creature with a consciousness. Fascinating.

These relatively unknown secret masterworks show the power of cinema art to be meaningful and moving. And to be highly entertaining as well. YOU WILL BE ENTERTAINED! So, be moved and be entertained - seek out these obscure works of film that almost rise to the level of religion. Achieve you own "nirvanic peace" by watching films that do as they promise: help us think and evolve! Nothing like them.