Film Lens
My Reincarnation is a documentary directed by Jennifer Fox that chronicles the relationship between Tibetan spiritual master Namkhai Norbu and his son, Khyentse Yeshi Namkhai, over two decades. The film addresses themes such as spirituality, identity, and cultural survival, set against the backdrop of Yeshi's reluctance to embrace his father's spiritual legacy. Yeshi was recognized at birth as the reincarnation of his father's uncle, a spiritual teacher killed during the Chinese invasion of Tibet, which adds complexity to their father-son dynamic.
The narrative unfolds as Yeshi grows from 18 to 39 years old, while Namkhai Norbu ages from 50 to 70. The film captures the tension between Yeshi's desire for a normal life in Italy and his father's efforts to preserve Tibetan heritage. The use of water and swimming as a recurring theme symbolizes Namkhai Norbu's teachings, while the film's soundscape enhances the spiritual atmosphere that Norbu seeks to impart to his son and the Western audience.
Why Watch
- •Meet Namkhai Norbu, a Tibetan spiritual master in Italy.
- •Follow Yeshi's struggle against his spiritual legacy.
- •See the impact of Tibetan culture on Western life.
Did You Know
•Jennifer Fox filmed My Reincarnation over 20 years, from 1988 to 2009.
•Yeshi was recognized at birth as the reincarnation of his uncle, a Dzogchen master.
•Namkhai Norbu escaped Tibet in 1959 and settled in Italy.
•The film has a score of 73% on Rotten Tomatoes based on 15 critic reviews.
Perfect For
Buddhism enthusiastsCultural identity seekersDocumentary lovers