In the Flow consists of three films: Buddhism, Man & Nature, Flowing With the Tao, and Going With the Flow. Originally filmed between 1978 and 1983, each is similar in structure, and runs about 15 minutes in length. Watts' gentle off-camera narratives meander through an array of subjects: Taoism; the roles people occupy in the flow and pattern of nature; the virtues of a non-material lifestyle. Along the way he takes a few brief potshots at military technology ("senseless waste of wealth") and the misuse of religion (...we must get away from the idea that religion--that God--is something to hold on to...upon which to take a stand.") The majority of the visual content consists of scenes of waves or flowing water. United to the narration through a ubiquitous background of flute and koto music, the overall effect is almost hypnotic. Technically, the tape quality is rough but passable, and the soundtrack has some background hiss. Of value to general collections as a meditation aid, or for collection balance in religion/philosophy. (Available from: Hartley Productions, Cat Rock Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807). (Elliott Swanson )
In The Flow
(1986)/Documentary/40 min./$125 (non-paid public performance rights included)/Hartley Productions. Vol. 1, Issue 8
In The Flow
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: