Art Films Arto Halonen arkistot - Elokuvalisenssi.fi

Published: December 27, 2023

Karmapa – Matka maailman katolla

“Karmapa – matka maailman katolla” (transl. “Karmapa – Journey on the Roof of the World”) is a follow-up documentary to “Karmapa – Jumaluuden kaksi tietä” (transl. “Karmapa – The Two Paths of Divinity”. “Journey on the Roof of the World” portrays the moral and motivational conflicts encountered by the creators.

The filming of “Karmapa – The Two Paths of Divinity” spanned three and a half years, during which the intricate work process of the creators was also documented. The filming involving the Karmapa residing in Tibet was conducted in collaboration with the Chinese government, causing the filming permit process to extend over several years.

As the film features appearances by the Dalai Lama and another Karmapa residing in India, the creators had to present a cover story about the film’s content to the Chinese government. Otherwise, the Chinese administration would hardly have approved the film.

This project wasn’t easily acceptable even within the Buddhist world, as the power struggle between the two Karmapas is a sensitive and divisive issue within Buddhism.

(Source: Art Films production)

Karmapa – jumaluuden kaksi tietä

“Karmapa – The Two Paths of Divinity” is a documentary film directed by Arto Halonen in 1998. The film explores Tibet’s spiritual community and the politics of Tibetan China. It follows the preparations of two Karmapa Lama candidates for the role of the country’s spiritual leader. The documentary was filmed in Tibet and China, under the supervision of Chinese authorities. It has received accolades, including the European Union humanitarian award.

Karmapa believes that the future of humanity hinges on understanding, compassion, and spiritual development. The film introduces two approaches to Karmapa: the traditional Buddhist teachings and a more modern perspective aimed at addressing contemporary challenges.

The film sheds light on Karmapa’s efforts to bridge traditional values and teachings with the modern world, showcasing how his teachings offer insights and solutions to the lives of people today.

Ringside

“Ringside” is a dramatized documentary about boxer Tarmo Uusivirta as he prepares for the final and most crucial fight of his career. This match ultimately becomes a battle within himself amidst the crossfire of changing life values.

At 34 years old, the athlete has risen from rock bottom back into the boxing ring. He is on the path towards a world championship through an European Champion title fight. However, love transforms his mindset, and at the most critical moment of his career, he is ready to give up for the sake of life.

(Source: Art Films production)

Valo varjon takaa

“Light Behind the Shadow” is a portrait of hurdler Arto Bryggare. The film follows Bryggare’s life for a year and a half after his Achilles tendon ruptured in 1988.

Desperately, Bryggare attempts a comeback to hurdling and reaching the top despite his legs no longer being able to endure. The relentless and stubborn battle of Bryggare against time and physical limitations intertwines with glimpses of his past athletic achievements. These moments portray both the persistent struggle of Bryggare and the highs and lows of an athlete’s journey. (Source: Art Films production)

Kahdet kasvot

Kahdet kasvot (transl. Two Faces) is a short animated film. It tells the story of the immutability of human nature and the legacy of revenge that passes from one generation to another.

The story begins in the Stone Age and progresses to modern times, narrating the cruelty of humans and their inability to break free from the burdens of their past.

Director and Screenplay: Arto Halonen (Source: Art Films production)