USA – 2011 – 84 MIN – COLOUR - FEATURE - IN ENGLISH
A FILM BY VIKRAM GANDHI
Kumaré is an enlightened guru from the East who builds a following of loyal disciples in the West. But Kumaré is not real. He is an American filmmaker named Vikram Gandhi, who has transformed himself into Kumaré as the centerpiece of a social experiment designed to explore and test one of the world's most sacred taboos.
Concealing his true identity from all he meets, Kumaré forges profound, spiritual connections with real people from all walks of life. At the same time, in the absurdity of living as an entirely different person, Vikram the filmmaker is forced to confront difficult questions about his own identity. At the height of his popularity he reveals his greatest teaching: his true self. A playful yet genuine and insightful look at belief and spirituality, the film crosses a line few have dared to cross, all to discover: from illusion comes truth.
"...a surprisingly engaging, absorbing — and perversely revealing — little movie"
- THE TORONTO STAR
"A fave at Hot Docs and SXSW last year that returns for a run at the Bloor"
- THE GRID
"...one of the best alums from Hot Docs' 2011 edition, tackling themes such as the manufactured nature of religion and the loss of faith."
- BLOGTO
"Part Borat-style prankumentary and part thoughtful exploration of gurus and religion."
- REALSCREEN
"An abundance of food for thought."
- SOUND ON SIGHT
"Humorous and thought-provoking without being insensitive or ridiculous."
- TORONTO FILM SCENE
"The perfect blend of heart, truth, and humour. It's a real winner."
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