Why Has Bodhi-dharma Left for the East?

An aged monk, his young apprentice, and an orphan inhabit a remote monastery. This fascinating Korean film by Bae Yong-kyun focuses on their interaction and, in the process, provokes a contemplation on life, death and enlightenment. A solo effort, the film took ten years to complete. Korean with English subtitles. Color, 1989. 135min.