Common Sense Media Review
By Renee Schonfeld
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Docu visits aging spiritual hero; drug references.
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Ram Dass, Going Home
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
RAM DASS, GOING HOME takes its audience to visit with the man in his Maui sanctuary, where it's clear that the brilliant mind, clear blue eyes, and weighty observations haven't abandoned him, even at age 87. Director Derek Peck spends just enough time on his subject's history using old photographs, video recordings, news clips, and bits of backstory. He's chosen to focus, instead, on staying with Ram Dass as he is today. We see him begin his day, dependent upon those who care for him, share his meditations, and hear the ongoing conversation he has with himself and with the universe. Nothing out of the ordinary happens, but as is often the case, there's comfort and beauty in the ritual and routine -- a dip in the pool, a visit to his doctor, a romp in the ocean, and a stroll through the tropical gardens of the Island.
Is It Any Good?
The simplicity of this documentary -- the music, countless images of nature at its most beautiful, and words of its subject -- casts a spell that's satisfyingly in sync with the film's message. It isn't necessary to have been a follower of Ram Dass to appreciate the quality of life he's been able to achieve, the self-acceptance, and his prevailing ease, optimism, and likability. He preaches love and he appears to live within its sphere. In Ram Dass, Going Home, Peck's audience is treated to masterful visuals and sounds of nature, a spot-on musical score, along with the artifacts that surround Ram Dass in his home and the caring folks who tend to him. Throughout, Ram Dass continues to do what he's always done. He's a teacher. He's a spiritual advisor. And, ever the guru, he takes advantage of the opportunity Peck has given him to let his voice be heard again.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the purposes of documentary filmmaking: to inform, entertain, and persuade. Which one (or more) of these purposes describes Ram Dass, Going Home? In what ways were you informed by this film -- what did you learn? If you enjoyed the movie, what did you find entertaining? Did Ram Dass's words and way of being make you think about your own place in the world? What will you remember most?
If this documentary inspired you to learn more about its subject -- Ram Dass -- how could you find out more about him? Would you be surprised to learn that his original name was Richard Alpert and that he grew up in an affluent home in Massachusetts? Find out what events during his younger years influenced the profound changes he made.
What does Ram Dass mean when he says "Make friends with change"? How could such a notion make everyday living less stressful?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : April 6, 2018
- Cast : Ram Dass
- Director : Derek Peck
- Studio : Netflix
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Compassion
- Run time : 31 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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