Into Great Silence

I went to a showing of this movie, Into Great Silence, last week with some friends in Baltimore. Its an independent film that was produced in Europe last year. Here's the movie's own description:
Nestled deep in the postcard-perfect French Alps, the Grande Chartreuse is considered one of the world’s most ascetic monasteries. In 1984, German filmmaker Philip Gröning wrote to the Carthusian order for permission to make a documentary about them. They said they would get back to him. Sixteen years later, they were ready. Gröning, sans crew or artificial lighting, lived in the monks’ quarters for six months—filming their daily prayers, tasks, rituals and rare outdoor excursions. This transcendent, closely observed film seeks to embody a monastery, rather than simply depict one—it has no score, no voiceover and no archival footage. What remains is stunningly elemental: time, space and light. One of the most mesmerizing and poetic chronicles of spirituality ever created, INTO GREAT SILENCE dissolves the border between screen and audience with a total immersion into the hush of monastic life. More meditation than documentary, it’s a rare, transformative theatrical experience for all.

Overall I agree with the review above - it was very good - and different... I must say I've never been to a movie with so much silence ... it was a bit hard at first to watch because we are so used to action and noise... but, as I got used to it, it grew on me. It is a movie that, if approached in the right way, is very profound and can move you to prayer and meditation of the God who reveals himself "not in the earthquake or the thunder, etc." but in a "whisper" (see 2 Kings). It is also remiscent of the Psalmist who says "For God alone my soul waits in silence."

In addition to the daily lives of the monks - there are many impressive and artistic shots of the nature that surrounds the monastery.

If you have a friend who is interested in the arts or in learning more about the experience of living in a monastery... well this is a good film. It also - is not overtly Catholic - in that you could go with Joe Smo the agnostic - and they would probably be comfortable throughout the movie... it may even spark a conversation or - the joy in the monk's own lifestyle - may witness of the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus.

Checkout the trailer online, if interested in seeing it.

Anyone else seen this movie? Do you think it provides a chance for evangelization? Or maybe is a turnoff?