Kumaré Directed
by
Vikram Gandhi USA / 2011 / 83 minutes New York Premiere
Screening
Times and Venues:
Bearsville Theater WOODSTOCK
09/23/2011, 12:15PM
$10
Upstate Films II RHINEBECK
09/24/2011, 12:15PM
$10
SYNOPSIS:
The search for spiritual fulfillment becomes grist for the mill as Hindu-American skeptic Vikram Gandhi sets out on a grand experiment to prove that religious leaders are no better than the rest of us. Vikram, through a few cosmetic changes, transforms himself, becoming the guru Sri Kumaré. Accompanied by two colleagues, the newly minted guru heads for Phoenix. His teaching? Illusion is truth, and truth is illusion, and that we don't need gurus to make ourselves happy. He soon attracts a following and Kumaré becomes a mirror for the observer. Ironically, one of his followers proclaims, "There's nothing phony about him." But what happens when the "holy man" must reveal the "hoax?" And will the student become the teacher? An orgiastic sound healing session is just one of the many delights in this smart and very funny film, part "Zelig" with a nod to a kinder, gentler "Borat." (Barbara Pokras, A.C.E.)
BIO:
Vikram Gandhi is a New York-based director and video-journalist. Sri
Kumaré is a manifestation of his ideal self.
MAIN CREDITS: Cast/Featuring: Vikram Gandhi, Purva Bedi, Kristen Calgaro
Executive Producer(s): Stephen Feder, Cristian Gil, Nadia Muna, Eli Nhaissi
The Woodstock Film Festival is a not-for-profit, 501c3 organization with a mission to present an
annual program and year-round schedule of film, music,
and art-related activities that promote artists, culture,
inspired learning, and diversity. The Hudson Valley Film
Commission promotes sustainable economic development
by attracting and supporting film, video and media production.
