I discovered Walk With Me after reading two of Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, and by that time, I already felt deeply connected to his teachings. His words had guided me toward a more mindful and compassionate way of living, but seeing him on screen—watching him walk, speak, and simply exist—was an entirely different experience. There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing his presence, his calm, and his way of being in the world.
This documentary gave me a more intimate look at his life, his monastic community, and the mindfulness practices I had only read about. It made me long to visit Plum Village one day—to step into that space of deep peace and connection, to walk the same paths, and to immerse myself in the energy of those who have dedicated their lives to mindful living. Watching this film felt like a meditation in itself, a gentle invitation to slow down, breathe, and truly be present.
About Walk With Me
Walk With Me is a meditative documentary that offers a rare glimpse inside the Plum Village Monastery in France, home to the Zen Buddhist master Thich Nhat Hanh and his community of monks and nuns.
Filmed over three years, the documentary follows the daily lives of the monastics, capturing their rituals, meditations, and teachings as they embody the practice of mindfulness. It also follows them on a U.S. speaking tour, sharing their wisdom with the world. Narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch, the film weaves in passages from Thich Nhat Hanh’s early journals, offering insights into his reflections on life, suffering, and inner peace.
At its heart, Walk With Me is more than just a film—it’s an experience. It invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and contemplate what it truly means to live mindfully.
Themes in the Film
Mindfulness in Everyday Life – How can we bring mindfulness into our daily routines, just as the monastics do?
The Power of Presence – Thich Nhat Hanh teaches that true happiness comes from being fully present in each moment.
Community & Connection – The monastic sangha provides a living example of deep human connection through shared mindfulness.
Impermanence & Acceptance – The film explores Buddhist teachings on change, suffering, and learning to let go.
Silence as a Teacher – Walk With Me is not a film filled with explanations; it is a film that invites you to feel, to listen to the silence, and to discover insights within yourself.
Movie Club Questions for Reflection:
If you’ve read Thich Nhat Hanh’s books, how did seeing him on screen change or deepen your understanding of his teachings?
What aspects of the Plum Village way of life resonate with you the most? Could you see yourself practicing in such a space?
The film emphasizes the power of silence and presence—how do you cultivate mindfulness in your own life?
What part of the documentary stayed with you the most? Was there a specific teaching or scene that resonated deeply?
Thich Nhat Hanh speaks about “peace in every step.” How can we apply this idea in our daily lives, even in moments of stress or chaos?
Let’s reflect together—what did Walk With Me awaken in you? Have you ever felt called to visit a space like Plum Village, or perhaps even create your own sanctuary of peace in daily life? Share your thoughts below.