Buddhism Goes to the Movies
Introduction to Buddhist Thought and Practice

Buddhism Goes to the Movies: Introduction to Buddhist Thought and Practice explains the basics of Buddhist philosophy and practice through a number of dramatic films from around the world. This book introduces readers in a dynamic way to the major traditions of Buddhism: the Therav?da, and various interrelated Mah?y?na divisions including Zen, Pure Land and Tantric Buddhism. Students can use Ronald Green?s book to gain insights into classic Buddhist themes, including Buddhist awakening, the importance of the theory of dependent origination, the notion of no-self, and Buddhist ideas about life, death and why we are here. Contemporary developments are also explored, including the Socially Engaged Buddhism demonstrated by such figures as the Dalai Lama, Thich Nhat Hanh, Aung San Suu Kyi, and other Buddhist activists. Finally, comparisons between filmic expressions of Buddhism and more traditional artistic expressions of Buddhism?such as mandala drawings?are also drawn.

An important addition to any introduction to Buddhist philosophy and practice, Buddhism Goes to the Movies is an excellent way to bring Buddhist thought, history, and activity to the uninitiated and interested reader.

Chapter 1. Early Representations of Buddhism in Films: Broken Blossoms and Lost Horizon

Chapter 2. The Four Noble Truths and Fight Club

Chapter 3. Buddhist Awakening and Waking Life

Chapter 4. Dependant Origination and I Heart Huckabees

Chapter 5. Korean Seon Buddhism and Why Has Bodhi-Dharma Left for the East?

Chapter 6. Theravāda Buddhism, Socially Engaged Buddhism and The Burmese Harp

Chapter 7. Tibetan Buddhism and The Cup

Chapter 8. Japanese Shin Buddhism and Departures

Chapter 9. The Buddhist Order of Nuns and Windhorse

Chapter 10. Thai Buddhism in Horror Films: Nang Nak and Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives

Ronald S. Green is Assistant Professor of Religious Studies at Coastal Carolina University. He studied Buddhism at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He is the editor of four books on Buddhism, peace and justice.