The Movie: I don't even remember how it was this DVD ended up in my Netflix queue, but I can now say that it's absolutely the most visually arresting film I have ever seen. Baraka is a non-verbal film. I don't exactly want to call it a documentary, but it shows the world through pictures and sound, but without any dialogue.

The filmmakers traveled to hundreds of locations in 24 countries on six continents, capturing elements of the world around us... nature, civilization, the way people live, the way they die. If you wanted to draw some kind of meaning from it all, it might be some kind of vague message that despite all of our differences, we're all actually very similar, and part of a single living, breathing planet.

But even if you strip away all hippy spiritual meanings, every single shot is amazingly well conceived and masterfully executed. Every single shot will blow you away with their often surreal beauty, their composition and sometimes, their subject matter. Many of the transitions are done through very interesting juxtaposition of scenes that though very different in subject matter, are very similar in from a visual composition standpoint. Other times they are similar in subject matter, but complete contrasts from each other visually. Each, carefully planned out, drawing out certain emotional responses.

I do have to admit that Baraka will probably test the limits of many people's attention spans, but if you've got an eye for photography, a mind for philosophy or are under the influence of mind-altering substances, you will be absolutely blown away by this film. One thing I do have to say is that this is one of those films that was just meant to be seen on REALLY, REALLY big screens. It was shot in the 70mm format, and I'd love the opportunity to see it on the big screen, but I doubt I'll get that chance any time soon. In the mean time, I urge you to see this DVD on the biggest and best TV you can get your hands on.

The DVD: This disc features an anamorphic widescreen transfer that was supposedly made from a 70mm print, and while the cinematography is absolutely stunning and enough of that is conveyed, the video quality didn't quite live up to what I think it could have been. There was "ringing" from excessive edge enhancement (where the image should have already been amazingly sharp from starting with a 70mm print in the first place), and odd flickering patterns in certain scenes, though otherwise the transfer was relatively clean, with only a few hints of dust and specks.

The 5.1 surround audio mix was amazing, with wonderful use of the surround channels to really envelop you into the lush soundtrack of this film. Special features are on the short side with only a behind the scenes featurette, though you do get some insight from the filmmakers on some of the philosophies behind the film, and the hardships endured to bring it to screen. Overall, I'd say this film is worth checking out!