A Zen Life: The Life and Thought of Buddhist Philosopher Daisetsu Suzuki

13 Oct 2009

Award-winning documentary followed by Q&A session on 24 November

Tuesday 24 November, 5.15-7.30pm
Arts Lecture Theatre, Lower Ground Floor, Samuel Alexander Building

This is an award-winning 77-minute documentary about D T Suzuki (1870-1966), who is widely credited with introducing Zen Buddhism to the West.

A Zen teacher and author of books such as "An Introduction to Zen Buddhism", Suzuki influenced people such as Carl Jung and Thomas Merton, Western Buddhist pioneers such as Robert Aitken, and members of the 'Beat generation' such as Alan Ginsberg and Gary Snyder.

The film uses rare footage of Suzuki's personal life and lectures, plus interviews with those who knew him, to illustrate his life, Zen thought and influence.

The film will be followed by a Q&A with the director, Michael Goldberg, a Canadian who has lived for 30 years in Tokyo. He will also talk about the interviews he conducted with those who knew Suzuki.

• 5pm Doors open
• 5.15pm Welcoming remarks and Introduction (Ian Reader, The University of Manchester)
• 5.30-6.50pm Film screening
• 6.50-7.30pm Discussion and Q&A session with Michael Goldberg