Is The Buddha Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, The Buddha is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 120 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Buddha Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2010, The Buddha enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on This documentary for PBS by award-winning filmmaker David Grubin and narrated by Richard Gere, tells the story of the Buddha’s life, a journey especially relevant to our own bewildering times of violent change and spiritual confusion. Under the direction of David Grubin, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Richard Gere, Blair Brown, Tenzin Gyatso. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Buddha offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Buddha resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, The Buddha is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Buddha centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. This documentary for PBS by award-winning filmmaker David Grubin and narrated by Richard Gere, tells the story of the Buddha’s life, a journey especially relevant to our own bewildering times of violent change and spiritual confusion. It features the work of some of the world’s greatest artists and sculptors, who across two millennia, have depicted the Buddha’s life in art rich in beauty and complexity. Hear insights into the ancient narrative by contemporary Buddhists, including Pulitzer Prize winning poet W.S. Merwin and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Join the conversation and learn more about meditation, the history of Buddhism, and how to incorporate the Buddha’s teachings on compassion and mindfulness into daily life. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2010 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Buddha has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a The Buddha sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Buddha (2010): with an audience rating of 6.3/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Buddha has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.3/10, and global collection metrics, The Buddha stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2010 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Buddha movie hit or flop?
The Buddha has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Buddha worth watching?
The Buddha is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Buddha?
The Buddha is a Documentary movie that This documentary for PBS by award-winning filmmaker David Grubin and narrated by Richard Gere, tells the story of the Buddha’s life, a journey especia...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Buddha movie hit or flop?
The Buddha has received mixed reviews with a 6.3/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Buddha worth watching?
The Buddha is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is The Buddha?
The Buddha is a Documentary movie that This documentary for PBS by award-winning filmmaker David Grubin and narrated by Richard Gere, tells the story of the Buddha’s life, a journey especia...
Is The Buddha family friendly?
The Buddha is a Documentary movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch The Buddha?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Buddha on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Buddha?
The Buddha features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie The Buddha?
The runtime and duration of The Buddha are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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