In the Beginning There Was Light

In the Beginning There Was Light is a 2013 experimental documentary film that has been known to captivate, astound and considerably provoke thoughts amongst its viewers. This Austrian documentary, directed and co-written by Peter-Arthur Straubinger, produces an incredible exploration into an unfamiliar area of human life - Breatharianism. With Helmut Grasser making a prominent appearance, the documentary successfully pushes the boundaries of science and spirituality, creating an impact that resonates across a broad and diverse audience.

At its core, In the Beginning There Was Light is not just a film; it is an adventure into the mystical phenomenon of breatharianism, known as 'living on light'. This might come as a shock to many, but the documentary reveals a world of people who renounce food and water, claiming to draw their sustenance from "prana"- a Sanskrit term deemed as "life air" or "life force". This claim, as one might expect, is not without contention or controversy, and the documentary delves into this topic in an enlightening and intriguing way.

The director, P. A. Straubinger, rather than presenting a definitive conclusion, embarks on a journey that explores the breadth and depth of this mysterious phenomenon. In particular, the film features interviews with leading scientific experts across diverse fields including physics, biology, neurology and psychology drawn globally. Clinical tests and studies conducted on practitioners of breatharianism encompass yet another crucial dimension to In the Beginning There Was Light, adding to its credibility and relevance.

One standout aspect of Straubinger’s directorial approach is his neutrality. He doesn't aim to convince the audience to accept or reject the central premise but encourages each viewer to explore, to question, and to come to their own understandings. The documentary allows viewers to widely interpret the phenomenon based on personal beliefs, making it a riveting experience for skeptics and believers alike.

Helmut Grasser's prominent contribution to the documentary is applaudable. He brings forth his impressive skills and knowledge in capturing the authentic experiences of the subjects, their families, and those who've undertaken scientific tests to validate this phenomenon. His ability to add the human touch to the scientific discourse makes his involvement in the project an undeniable asset.

Visually, the film adopts a clean, minimalist aesthetic to emphasize its content. The cinematography uses clear lines and natural light to underscore the "Living on Light" concept, while the editing ensures that one viewpoint does not overshadow another, thereby maintaining the film's open-ended nature. However, it is the interviews that form the backbone and lend the documentary its authenticity and depth, unraveling a world hitherto unexplored by many.

In the Beginning There Was Light has gained tremendous attention since its release, not only for presenting a controversial topic, but also for the quality of its production and the depth of its content. It is an honest documentation of individuals who claim to live outside the boundaries established by modern science and society. Wiener Zeitung appreciated it as a "brave, unflinching documentary on a topic that most would deem impossible". Moreover, the film enjoyed a long running presence in Austrian cinemas and has become one of the most successful documentaries in the country, prompting intriguing discussions within academic circles and among general audiences.

However, it's worth pointing out that the film is not about advocating for breatharianism or encouraging people to stop eating. Instead, it aims to provoke thought, spark curiosity, and open up dialogues around the remarkable capacities of the human body and spirit. It also raises pertinent questions concerning the intersection of science and spirituality, and how one might influence or inform the other.

In general, In the Beginning There Was Light has successfully initiated a conversation about a rarely explored human phenomenon. Through excellent direction, engaging interviews, and thought-provoking content, it breaks new ground and offers an alternative perspective on the limits and potential of human capacities. Ultimately, the film serves as a reminder of the incredible mysteries that continue to exist within us and around us, awaiting exploration and understanding. Whether you arrive as a skeptic or a believer, In the Beginning There Was Light promises a fascinating journey into the uncharted territories of human capabilities.