Is Buddha: The Great Departure Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2011)

📖 The Core Premise

Buddha: The Great Departure returns to the screen in 2011, bringing a fresh narrative to the Adventure, Animation, Drama, History genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Prince Siddhartha is heir to the Shakya kingdom, which is constantly at war with the more powerful Kosala kingdom. His father tries to raise as him as a warrior leader and to shield him from the miseries of the world. Meeting the young outcast girl Migaila, Siddhartha experiences love for the first time but also witnesses the suffering that afflicts humankind. Meanwhile, in Kosala, Chapra rises through the military, despite his lowly origins, to become a hero and general of the army. A final showdown between the two kingdoms forces Siddhartha to re-evaluate the path he is following."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. The performance by Sayuri Yoshinaga is a highlight, bringing a palpable intensity to the screen. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Adventure. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Buddha: The Great Departure worth your time? If you appreciate Adventure, Animation, Drama, History films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2011, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Buddha: The Great Departure is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 111 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.