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Send to friendONE the Movie
If you were granted 15 minutes alone with an enlightened being, what questions would you ask? When independent filmmaker Ward M. Powers embarked on the journey to create ONE: The Movie, this was the question he posed to friends, family, and associates. From their responses, he culled 20 questions that shaped the little film that is gaining strong international appeal, having been viewed by over a million people across five continents. For these timeless questions, a simple, absolute answer eludes us. For example,
Over a two-year period the filmmakers were able to interview a remarkably diverse cross-section of humanity—including some of the world’s most renowned authors, spiritual leaders, icons, and masters.
Soon after ONE’s release, it became apparent that the film was more than just an entertaining movie. Within months, universities, high schools, libraries, youth groups, spiritual communities, and businesses began arranging screening events using ONE as a way to stimulate dialog and collective exploration of life’s deeper meaning. Harvard and Yale were among the first to hold screenings.
Interestingly, the feedback suggested the film’s appeal came not from providing answers to these questions, but from inviting viewers to explore these issues together and the build capacity for differences of opinion to become a source of deeper understanding.
After watching the film, students engage in small group exploration of many of the questions posed in the film. This exercise develops listening skill and an openness to suspend judgment on the ideas of others – both critical to high performing teams. Students also gain the opportunity articulate their beliefs to relevant questions and get to know fellow students better. A shortened version (39 minutes) of the full 84-minute film is used for this exercise.
Questions related to ONE: The Movie
Why is there poverty and suffering in the world?
What is the greatest source of conflict between your generation and your parent's?
If you could have great health or great wealth for the rest of your life, which would you choose and why? (no, money can't buy health)
What contribution to society would you most like to make?
What do you like least about American culture?
What makes you most depressed?
What do you fear most?
How does one obtain true peace?
What does it mean to live in the present moment?
What distracts you most often from being in the present moment?
What happens to you after you die?
What is the meaning of life?
If you believe in a divine spirit, describe God.
What is the greatest quality humans possess?
What prevents people from living to their fullest potential?
Non-verbally, by motion or gesture only, act out what you believe is the current condition of the world.
What is your one wish for the world?
How are we all connected?
