Words of My Perfect Teacher. Lesley Ann Patten (Director & Writer). Lesley Ann Patten (ZIJI Film & Television) Kent Martin (NFB Producer). Montreal, PQ: National Film Board of Canada, 2004. 101 min., VHS or DVD, $99.99. Order Number: C9103 061. Subject Headings: Dzongshar Jamyang Khyentse, Rinpoche Rinpoches-Biography Grades 10 and up / Ages 15 and up. Review by Elaine Fuhr. **** /4

Producing a documentary is difficult business but made even more so when you have a less than cooperative subject. That is exactly what Dzongsar Khyentse Norbu portrays in Words Of My Perfect Teacher. He is at once a master teacher of Buddhism, successful film director and soccer enthusiast, who combines ancient lessons of Buddhism with the modern world. He is also an eccentric who keeps the film crew and his students guessing at what will be his next move.

      The challenge of filming this extraordinary man, who professes to have the same paranoia as ordinary folk, has produced a documentary that shows the many facets of his life. It is humorous, lively and educational, particularly for those interested in the Buddhist teachings. Dzongsar Khyentse Norbu shares his wisdom throughout the film and teaches not only his followers but those around him in many different daily situations. This is his way, and this is how the viewer sees him. Whether he is filmed in London, Germany or Butan, one cannot help but listen intently to each piece of advice he chooses to share.

      The film crew is everywhere, filming close ups of Dzongshar Khyentse Norbu on the bus, cooking at home or enjoying a soccer game. Scenes from various events show him as he interacts with those around him. Close-ups of his students and the crew reveal their eagerness to be near Khyentse Norbu and learn, along with the bewilderment they share when he does something totally unforeseen like jumping off a bus, losing the crew and showing up at another place and time. Lesley Ann Patten and her crew have given the viewer a sense of this most interesting individual while allowing him to maintain an air of detachment, aloof from the world around him, yet more aware than most.

Highly Recommended.

Elaine Fuhr is a teacher of elementary, middle school and special needs students in Alberta.

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