Peaceful Warrior

clipped from: www.spiritualityandpractice.com

Film Review

By Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat

Peaceful Warrior
Directed by Victor Salva
Lions Gate Films 06/06 Feature Film

PG - 13 - sensuality, sex references, accident scenes

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Dan asks what he is doing working in a gas station and is surprised by the answer: "This is a service station; there is no higher purpose than service." Dan can't really connect with that. His mind is filled with a constant barrage of thoughts and emotions that keep him in a state of agitation. Socrates sees that this college student has kept his body in fine shape but has not done much inner work. He wants Dan "to take out the trash," all the stuff that passes through his head that he doesn't need.

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Dan is the reigning "Lord of the Rings," but he decides to quiet his mind and be totally present during his routine on the pommel horse. He amazes everyone with a razzle-dazzle performance. When he boasts to Socrates that "I was totally awesome," his spiritual teacher refuses to join his ego parade.

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Soon Socrates' prescribed regimen of abstinence from drinking and women leaves Dan feeling deprived, and he returns to his old lifestyle. That's when a major tragedy turns his life upside down, and he wonders whether he'll ever be able to regain what he has lost. Another helper along the way is Joy (Amy Smart), a friend of Socrates who helps Dan stay on the spiritual path.

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These movies do a fine job putting the spotlight on the relationship between a student and a wise teacher. Here Dan is forced to do battle with his restless mind and imperious ego. He knows how to practice in the gym but has not learned how to practice in everyday life. While out one evening, Dan and Socrates are robbed by three thieves who walk away with more loot than they expected, as the spiritual teacher models the practice of generosity. It is also great to see that Socrates derives such happiness from his job as a mechanic and being of service to others.

After many missteps and difficult challenges, Dan finally realizes that he has to polish his heart to be a better friend and an athlete who is happy just to participate in his sport. A final hike with Socrates serves no other purpose than to help Dan realize that the journey is what counts, not the destination. By the end, this centered young man is ready to share his wisdom with others. You won't get many chances to see American spiritual movies like Peaceful Warrior, so we recommend this one despite its flaws.