FILM OF THE WEEK: Chasing The Light - by Roe McDermott

Chasing the Light, Maurice O’Brien’s reflective documentary, takes viewers on a gentle yet poignant journey through the history of Dzogchen Beara, a Tibetan Buddhist retreat nestled in the wild beauty of West Cork. Founded by Peter and Harriet Cornish in the early '70s, the retreat grew from a vision of peace and spiritual refuge into one of the world’s most renowned Buddhist centres. O’Brien’s film captures not only the founding of this unique sanctuary, but also the challenges that arose, particularly when serious allegations of misconduct and abuse were levelled against their spiritual leader, Sogyal Rinpoche.

The film paints a vivid portrait of Peter Cornish, who bought 150 acres of clifftop farmland in 1973, transforming the site into a haven for those seeking solace and spiritual growth. Through archival footage and present-day scenes, O’Brien introduces us to Cornish, now in his later years, who brings humour and warmth to his tales of defying local scepticism. His dream was to create a refuge in a largely Catholic Ireland, where alternative lifestyles were met with suspicion. The documentary’s cinematography, with sweeping drone shots of the rugged coastline, conveys the enchantment that drew Peter and Harriet to West Cork - a place as untamed as their aspirations.

The film’s narrative, however, is not without its shadows. As the community works to complete Ireland’s first Buddhist temple, the accusations against Rinpoche, who had been a key figure in Dzogchen Beara’s development, emerge. The scandal casts a cloud over the sanctuary, forcing the community to reconcile their values with the moral failings of a revered leader. O’Brien handles this delicate subject with empathy and sensitivity, ensuring that the film doesn’t reduce the retreat’s story to scandal but instead offers a nuanced view of the complexities involved.

While some viewers may find the philosophical musings on Buddhist teachings more indulgent than engaging, the documentary’s heart lies in its portrayal of Cornish’s simple, humble wisdom. Unlike Rinpoche, whose ego, greed, and abuse of power became part of the controversy, Cornish never saw himself as a teacher, yet his actions spoke volumes about the values of kindness, community, and refuge. The film’s enduring message is one of goodness -how a dream, though imperfect, can still bring light to others, even when marred by human flaws.

Ultimately, Chasing the Light is more than a historical recounting of a spiritual retreat; it’s a meditation on the intersection of idealism, faith, and the harsh realities of human nature. The breathtaking landscape, coupled with the sincerity of the Cornish’s vision, creates a moving story that highlights both the beauty of the Irish coast and the enduring power of kindness and reflection.

This documentary offers a rare glimpse into a part of Ireland’s spiritual history while encouraging audiences to reflect on the light and shadows in their own lives.

In cinemas now.