Filmmaker Philip Gröning spent six months living in the Grande Chartreuse monastery to document the daily lives of Carthusian monks in the French Alps.
“A meditation on life. A contemplation of time. Silence. Repetition. Rhythm.”
Synopsis
Filmmaker Philip Gröning spent six months living in the Grande Chartreuse monastery to document the daily lives of Carthusian monks in the French Alps.
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Synopsis
At the Grande Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps, Carthusian monks engage in a life of silence and prayer. Filmmaker Philip Gröning began documenting their daily routines in 2001, after receiving permission from the monks, who had considered his proposal since 1984. Over six months, Gröning captured the monks' rituals and spiritual practices without artificial light or added sound. The film presents an intimate portrayal of their commitment to solitude and reflection within one of the world's most austere monastic communities.
What Critics Say
Unfolds with its own gentle, unforced rhythms, designed to be less a documentary than a meditation. Encourages viewers to listen closely.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See the daily life of Carthusian monks in the French Alps.
- Meet Philip Gröning, who lived at the monastery for six months.
- Find out why the Carthusian monks loved this film.
Did You Know
- Philip Gröning proposed the film idea to the monks in 1984.
- The monks responded 16 years later, in 2000, to allow filming.
- Gröning lived in the monastery for six months during 2002 and 2003.
- The film won the Special Jury Prize at the 2006 Sundance Festival.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed Into Great Silence?
Into Great Silence was directed by Philip Gröning.
What year was Into Great Silence released?
Into Great Silence was released in 2005.
What awards did Into Great Silence win?
Into Great Silence won several awards, including the Special Jury Prize at the 2006 Sundance Festival and the Bavarian Film Award for best documentary film in 2006.
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