To anyone doubting the considerable talent of Roger Deakins, watching this skillfully made account of the young Dalai Lama should settle the matter. Set against the backdrop of Morocco’s Atlas mountains—a choice that makes sense—Martin Scorsese presents a rich, vibrant and stimulating exploration of how this young man came to be chosen, following a search lasting four years, as the spiritual leader of a tranquil nation comprised of farmers and monks nestled in the Himalaya mountains. The boy was only two when events began unfolding, but there was already concern among those whose lives move at a slower pace that their neighboring country had ambitions for their territory. As he grows into adolescence, these dangers become more apparent, and by the film’s conclusion, the man is essentially compelled to begin a risky journey toward safety in India. The performances are spot-on; the three portrayals of the central figure blend together smoothly as he must navigate a precarious position and gain the political understanding needed to confront Chairman Mao (Robert Lin), who is disarming yet merciless. Philip Glass’s score also works well, with sweeping and personal arrangements that enhance the gorgeous costumes and escalating political tensions. It unfolds at a deliberate pace, but it's a delicately presented proposition, suggesting rather than dictating what happened. This approach leads to a more satisfying experience overall. The film certainly carries a message—several, in fact—but these are left for viewers to interpret; Scorsese doesn’t dictate his perspective. He encourages audiences to form their own conclusions. Deakins received an Oscar nomination for his work on this project, and to truly understand why, seeing it in a theater is recommended. Regardless, it's definitely worth viewing and provides ample opportunity for reflection.

Source on TMDB