Buechner

Molly Collins and Rob Collins' (no relation) Buechner is an extended interview/profile of Frederick Buechner, a Presbyterian minister whose books on experiencing God in day-to-day life have deeply influenced many readers, including the filmmakers. On the evidence of this rather plain but inviting hour-long conversation, Buechner is a thoughtful, engaging man, whose observations on the meaning of Christianity and other belief systems are refreshingly direct and dogma-free, illustrated by both contemporary references and personal lessons. It's easy to see why Buechner's accessible yet insightful treatment of some of the most fundamental questions about human existence have proven so attractive to so many; his reasoned approach and unpretentious bearing can't help but impress in an age that seems increasingly dominated by religious stridency and certitude. At the same time, the points he makes are not exactly new, as evidenced by his habit of quoting past masters, not only from scripture and key figures such as St. Augustine, but also those influential to Buechner's own intellectual growth. In short, this is a nice conversation with an amiable man (backed by a somewhat sappy soundtrack of Debussy piano pieces) that is likely to appeal to fans of the author/novelist, who has written over 30 books, including The Hungering Dark, A Long Day's Dying, and The Sacred Journey. A strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)