The Nature of Existence

Documentary filmmaker Roger Nygard travels around the world, visiting Jerusalem, China, and Rome for this nonjudgmental look at what disparate people think about some of life's most provocative questions. Among his queries: Why do we exist? What's the difference between science and religion—and can they co-exist? What's the definition of God? Does prayer work? Is there an afterlife? As in Nygard's previous film, Trekkies (1997), the director maintains both an amused sense of equanimity about his subject and deep respect for his interviewees, who subscribe to various belief systems, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Confucianism. Speakers include sci-fi writers, scientists, musicians, and ordinary folk, along with confrontational college campus evangelist Brother Jed Smock; Rob Adonis, founder of Ultimate Christian Wrestling; Carl Sagan's widow, Ann Druyan; actress Julia Sweeney; Indian guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar; and Michael Schermer, publisher of Skeptic magazine. Drawing on his experience in editing TV's Curb Your Enthusiasm, Nygard ironically juxtaposes contradictory comments, emphasizing the fact that the search for metaphysical truth will lead to myriad answers. Although somewhat scattershot, this humorously spiritual journey encompassing ancient and modern beliefs should prompt interesting discussions. Recommended. [Note: DVD extras include audio commentary (by director Roger Nygard, co-producer Paul Tarantino, associate producer Laurel Barrett, and others), deleted scenes (67 min.), two early shorts by Nygard (13 min.), a “making-of” featurette (12 min.), a musical performance by Pandit Jasraj (9 min.), a comedy segment by Steve Fromstein (7 min.), text bios, and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a timely documentary.] (S. Granger)