ZEN January 28, 2009

“In this fleeting life, why can’t people escape from the fighting, the pain and suffering of disease and death? I want you to find a way…”

This moving historical epic tells the story of Dogen (1200-1253), founder of the Soto school of Zen Buddhism considered to be the most important religious figure of his time. He was only eight years old when his mother died, but her final words set him on a path that would change the faith of a nation. Born into the troubled times of Kamakura Era Japan, Dogen’s search for enlightenment led him on a dangerous journey to study in China, where he was finally able to attain spiritual fulfillment. Armed only with the truth he discovered abroad, Dogen returned to Japan to bring peace and hope to his countrymen struggling to survive in the ruins of poverty, war, and the suffering that seems to afflict us all.

The concept of Zen established by Dogen 750 years ago continues to permeate our daily lives, not only in Japan, but internationally. In a world that continues to be plagued by crisis and confusion, this timely inspirational story could not be more relevant.

Following on the heels of its January 10th release in Japan, this will be the film’s first international screening. Celebrated kabuki actor Kantaro Nakamura (eldest son of the 18th Kanzaburo Nakamura), who performed with the Heisei Nakamura Kabuki troupe at Washington DC’s Warner Theater in 2007, gives a stirring performance as Dogen, certain to inspire us all with hope for the New Year.

Official Website: http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc/index.htm