The 20th Zurich Film Festival will showcase the world premiere of “Wisdom of Happiness,” a new documentary about the Dalai Lama. The film offers a rare look at the monk’s personal views on finding inner peace and happiness. It will debut October 3-13 during the festival in Zurich, Switzerland.
“Wisdom of Happiness” includes conversations where the Dalai Lama directly addresses viewers. Now approaching 90 years old, he shares timeless guidance on cultivating compassion and navigating today’s complex world. Festival attendees will see previously unreleased historical footage from the Tibetan government archives, which helps tell the story of how the Dalai Lama took on his spiritual role at age four.
Famous actor and producer Richard Gere executive produced the film and will attend its premiere. He believes “Wisdom of Happiness” can profoundly impact how audiences see themselves and humanity. Gere said he hopes the film has a “long and impactful life.” The Dalai Lama’s sister and the Prime Minister of Tibet in Exile are also scheduled to be there.
As the artistic director of the Zurich Film Festival, Christian Jungen welcomed Gere’s return to the event. Gere had received the festival’s lifetime achievement award previously. Jungen noted Gere’s desire to improve the world and praised how the new documentary advocates for more compassion through the Dalai Lama’s message. The global distribution rights for “Wisdom of Happiness,” including in the United States, are handled by Autlook Filmsales.
