A Mindful Choice (2016) Poster

User Reviews

Review this title
40 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
2/10
Just one big add for The Bright Path
marijke3425 August 2017
This movies consists of beautiful nature scenes and nice looking people with interesting story about how Ishay meditation/Ascension saved or changed their lives. The whole time I was waiting for the techniques to be explained, to hear more about it, but it wasn't. It felt like one big commercial. At my screening there were 2 Ishaya monks and they handed out flyers. The website listed on that flyer brings you to The Bright Path website and still doesn't give information about what it's all about, it just sells their courses. And they're expensive! I don't like paying for commercials. So this was a waste of money.
14 out of 15 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
No lie - THIS IS AN INFOMERCIAL
shawnna77724 January 2018
I got got by all these high reviews, don't make the same mistake, save your time and money! This is NOT a film/documentary! It is seriously one long infomercial for a method of meditation called Ascension / The Bright Path. So what IS Ascension, you ask?? Well for a few hundred $$$ the answers are all yours (insert eye roll here). This "documentary" proceeds to introduce you to people from all around the world whose lives have been forever enhanced and changed thanks to these meditative practices, but if you want any info on said meditative practices, techniques, or what the hell it even is, you need to fork over the $$$ and take a course. Before wasting your time on this junk, just feel free to google - Ascension, and you will quickly discover only limited info is available unless you want to pay to play and waste a weekend or more of your time for this cult bs.
11 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
Terrible advertisement masquerading as a film
decorrado21 July 2017
The movie is a well disguised advertisement, don't spend any money on this at all.

For some reason throughout the film lots of these special characters say they found inner peace by this one particular method of meditation. Not any form of meditation, but a particular kind called Ascension.

Furthermore, during the sections of the film I got through (I didn't get very far), there was no real mention of anything of value. Just more characters giving an extended sales pitch as to how this particular form of meditation worked best. It's fascinating to watch how disingenuous there conversations are, you'd think for a full-length film you could hire actors who would make better liars.

After I caught on that I was being sold a product. So I did some light digging. The film-maker himself makes an appearance as Greg Hopkinson, who decided to "leave" business behind in search of a better path after surviving an avalanche. Yet seems to have found a new business in selling New Age nonsense? The particular type of meditation that this film is selling is offered by certain organization only and is quite expensive.

Overall, the film is a terribly disguised advertisement for some New Age rubbish rather than offering any genuine insight into what meditation is and is pure propaganda. Save your time and money.
14 out of 16 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Inspiring film about how meditation can bring peace and happiness
theflyinkiwi19 June 2017
This is an amazing film which tells the stories of a variety of people, all around the world, who are facing different challenges. Each of these people use meditation to help them overcome and face those challenges and the film shows how they are able to achieve happiness and inner peace. Particularly powerful is the story of Maximum security prisoners in Mexico and the dramatic effect meditation has had on them as individuals and on the prison as a whole. There is a story in this film that will touch each and everyone in different ways and for different reasons.

The cinematography is absolutely stunning. I highly recommend this film for everyone but particularly those who are searching for something to fill that feeling of 'there must be something else'.
3 out of 12 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
The Bright Path is a cult- steer clear of Ishaya monks and ascension.
CultAwareness16 February 2021
Dont fall for the word salad The Bright Path is cashing in on the trend for meditiation and using vulnerable people to grow its cult. They recruit people to do meditation and will charm the pants off you but it is not truth. They are manipulative. Mindfulness meditation works so look into that or cognitive behavioural therapy if you are stuggling. Talk to a real qualified expert. Ishaya monks peddle half truths and gaslight people into believing their real and navigable problems can be solved by purely meditation. A dangerous way of avoiding working through legitimate issues and potentially mentally damaging for vulnerable people. Avoid avoid avoid this cult.
5 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
A different way to Live Life
manyuishaya26 June 2017
Warning: Spoilers
This is a Beautiful film about the incredible benefits of meditation. Watching people personally experience the healing of Heart, Mind, Body and Soul thru meditating is inspiring. This Film does an incredible job of capturing people that have transformed and completely changed the way in which they now exist. It's hard to argue with the results you see presented, one may not believe what they watched, but it passes the eye test, both stunningly visual and honest. More important than all, it passes the Heart test.
2 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
It's an infomercial
Happygoing12 February 2019
It's not a documentary. It doesn't represent all sides of the effectiveness of this particular kind of meditation. Its a propaganda infomercial with no objective angle that tells you nothing about how to meditate let alone how to meditate using this technique. If you are interested then you will have to part with cash to find out exactly what is being sold. This is an expensive sales pitch. This is not a 10/10 film at all. Why people would leave reviews like that suggests they are already devotees of this seemingly cult like organisation with an agenda.
8 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
2/10
1star but 10/10 Whaaaaat?!?!?
andycrawford-3378914 December 2019
NOTICE that all of the positive reviews on here make THE SAME MISTAKE of scoring the work 10/10 BUT ONLY GIVE IT 1 (ONE) STAR!!! Genuine reviews? I think not.
6 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
1/10
The cult, Jesus and the commercial
HansandMaria24 July 2021
It's an infomercial and it can't qualify as a documentary. And The bright path is a cult.

They are not only worth studying as an example of a cult, but also within the fields of religion and anthropology: plenty of Jesus and God, altars With singing and offerings, rituals, uniforms, £$, hierarchy and one absolute leader. They don't mention this as part of the package in this infomercial but you'll find out after you paid for the course called "the first sphere".

Google "the bright path cult" , to find plenty of information about the leader (yes, there's one leader) and other stuff.
2 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Powerful film. Powerful message
priyaishaya28 June 2017
One of the most amazing and touching documentaries I've ever seen. I've watched it many times, and every single time there are different parts of the film just moved and inspired something very deep. It's a beautifully done film with a super powerful message that all humanity needs to know. The most important right that we are all born with but hardly anybody knows exists.
2 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
A very inspirational film
dayalanishaya28 June 2017
I have watched this beautiful and inspirational film a number of times with family, friends and strangers alike. It has always been uplifting and highly motivating. Its beautiful, vibrant and with stunning simplicity tells the story of people from many walks of life, finding peace through Ascension Meditation. One is left with the certainty that this practice is simple, powerful and very effective. If it worked for them, then anyone can find peace using these techniques. The film is as beautiful to watch as is to listen to....the music ...and wonderful stories of transformation.
1 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Compelling viewing for everyone!
chawley-9935128 June 2017
This is a stunning documentary, highlighting the lives of a range of people in different countries who have found inner peace through meditation. From young to old, there is a positive message for everyone. Some of the scenes, especially in a Mexican prison, are moving and compelling viewing, but all the stories are powerful and riveting watching. The film is beautifully shot and edited. Highly recommended!
1 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Uplifting and Fabulous Cinematography
cmseress28 June 2017
Having been around the indie film industry for many years, I have seen a great many films that aspire to be "inspirational" and are either let down by script / mechanics or the quality of the film itself.

A Mindful Choice contains some of the most beautiful imagery, clear shooting and editing, and the sound - and soundtrack! - are absolutely stellar, a truly professional production of the highest caliber!

Then you get to the subject matter itself - how people have been using meditation to help themselves and, equally importantly, to help others. How much money is spent every year by individuals to self-improve? And then what? Great, they improved their own lot in life, but how about helping others? It is hugely motivating to get out of your shell and help others to help themselves more.

How to live a joy-filled life, even when you are at the end of your life ... just breathtakingly inspiring.
1 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Exquisite!
dianamarks-0454630 June 2017
We had a showing in my home town last night and I asked people to write comments. This was one of them, sadly anonymous.

I'd only seen the trailer previously so to see the whole thing was wonderful. All I can say is it is exquisite! Everything they spoke about touched my heart and made me want more. The whole world needs to see this movie.
1 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
The best choice I have ever made.
hopster-3687527 June 2017
This is an amazing and inspirational documentary about Ascension Meditation. It shares the experiences of people from all walks of life and how its bought peace and joy into their life. Not only is the scenery magnificent, the stories that people share are uplifting. If you have ever had doubt about meditation, this is a must see.
1 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
A film that gives us hope.
maitreya-5189327 June 2017
I really enjoyed this down-to-earth and touching documentary. Life can seem so chaotic and impossible to understand, but there is hope for humanity. A Mindfull Choice points to a way for all of us to find peace, and to really live a rich and fulfilling life, no matter what our personal circumstances. Some fascinating personal stories and a no-nosense message. Thank you.
1 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Conscious, profound and life changing...
ivonnespinozag28 June 2017
I had no idea what true service really was before watching this movie.

We all want to make a difference in the world, but we can't imagine how big the impact of making mindful choices can be. Through heart touching stories that everyone can relate to, 'A Mindful Choice' shows that it is possible to make a difference by choosing for experiencing peace, and that is the most important choice.

So, do it, watch it, go for it! We all deserve to experience peace...
1 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
The power to choose differently
trevorsimpson23 June 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Mesmerized me from the beginning with so many different people, from all over the world, sharing their experiences of the life-changing power of choice. Inspirational and easy to watch.

Vivid and genuine stories of people discovering what it means to be truly alive, no matter what the circumstances. In the face of adversity, discovering and sharing the power of making a simple choice.

And recognizing, maybe for the first time, that we can all share this experience because we all have the same ability to choose.
1 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Modern Conscious documentary for a new way of being
trevpage-2894730 June 2017
I really enjoyed this down to earth, uplifting documentary. It showcases multiple examples of how people from all walks of life have managed to transform their lives through the practice of meditation. More than that it gives us hope that there is a purpose and greatness to each and everyone of our lives and brings it back to us making a choice.
0 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
A must see
bardenlew6 July 2017
If you have never meditated before then this is the movie for you. Inspirational and compelling stories from people around the world and filmed in some visually stunning landscapes. There is more to this world than you see. Highly recommended for anyone wanting more meaning in their life and wishing to bring peace to the world.
0 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Meditation Demystified.
maamaaquin30 June 2017
This Movie/documentary was one of the most inspiring I have ever seen. I have shown it to many others who have also found it truly inspirational.

The content was extremely moving and it opened my eyes to the possibilities for change in my life and others, through meditation. It was interesting in that it showed how it made a difference to the lives of all different people across the spectrum.

I will continue encouraging others to watch this because I feel it will help so many to demystify Meditation and it's benefits.
0 out of 6 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Astonishing!
whosi9 July 2017
This documentary rocks! The people telling their stories and how meditation changed their life to the better - that's so authentic and touching! After seeing this documentary, I certainly believe that meditation can be the key for peace and happiness for everyone, regardless of ones age, circumstances or history! Thanks to the directors for all the love and passion they put into this documentary - it's palpable!
0 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
9/10
An inspiring look into the effects of Ascension Meditation
leecjohnson22 June 2017
A Mindful Choice shows the impact Ascension Meditation has had in a range of different environments with people of all backgrounds. It makes it very clear that we can choose where we put our attention and that we can move it away from the incessant chattering of the mind to achieve more contentment, happiness and peace with even the most challenging situations.

Hearing the (sometimes extreme) stories of the participants brings you into their world, opening a window into their lives. We get to hear how they transitioned from suffering into peace using meditation. I found the end of the film particularly inspiring when we hear from participants in a very difficult situation.

I'd certainly invite sceptics to see this one and anyone who is looking for inspiring stories of humanity.

There is hope and there is a method!
0 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Truly inspirational!
leanne-9843625 June 2017
What an inspirational movie! Hearing these stories of people from all around the world and how they have found peace through ascension meditation made me realise that this was possible for me too.

To see this beautiful woman dealing with cancer, and as prisoners in a high security Mexican prison, all experience real joy and a feeling that everything is OK regardless of their individual circumstances was incredibly moving to me. The work that these meditation teachers are doing in prisons is amazing. I wish this was happening in all prisons! Not only is it changing the lives of the prisoners but also their wider communities. Children will no longer be growing up with angry fathers full of hate. Maybe the cycle of violence we see all too often truly can be broken.

It's not very often that you see a film that leaves you with the possibility that peace really is possible on the planet. Do yourself a favour and go check it out. I will definitely be watching it again.
0 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
10/10
Very inspiring, profound and beautifully shot
miccigorrod22 June 2017
Very inspiring and beautifully shot. It's amazing to hear from so many people around the world from different backgrounds who have been so profoundly impacted by meditation. I was especially moved by the interviews with the prisoners, especially the guy who said his life had only begun in jail as a result of learning this technique - WOW! Where can actually I learn more about the meditation technique featured in the film though please? Thank you.
0 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
An error has occured. Please try again.

See also

Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews


Recently Viewed