Donna Read Movies
The life and work of acclaimed archeologist Dr. Marija Gimbutas serve as the subjects of this documentary narrated by Academy Award-winning actress Olympia Dukakis. Few archeologists have ever achieved quite the level of fame, or courted quite as much controversy, as the Lithuanian-born mythology and linguistics who dared to develop theories that challenged the "establishment" of her time. By unearthing evidence of goddess-worshipping civilizations throughout pre-historic "Old Europe," Dr. Gimbutas highlighted the importance of critical thinking while influencing an entire generation of feminists, scholars, and social thinkers. In this film, experts like Carol Christ, Margaret Conkley, Vikki Nobel, and Patricia Reis all offer their opinions on why the discoveries that Dr. Gimbutas made during her lifetime as still as relevant today as they were when she was still traveling the world in search of answers to our true origins. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Marija Gimbutas, Vikki Nobel, (more)
- 1993
Part one of the Women and Spirituality series, Goddess Remembered is a poetic examination of pre-Christian goddess worship. Traveling from the caves of Paleolithic France to the temples of Malta and Crete, this thought-provoking documentary offers insights into ancient cultures while exploring the contemporary women's spirituality movement. With the help of an archeologist and an art historian, the link between today's environmental crisis and the loss of a goddess-centered society are expertly examined. As they see it, this deterioration of society has meant an increase in territorial conflict, an absence of cooperation, and a disrespect for the earth. A pensive program, Goddess Remembered is an important tribute to an almost-forgotten set of values. ~ Cara Saposnik, All Movie Guide
- 1993
This documentary is one of three part set that surveys the course of women's spirituality in Western civilization at the end of the twentieth century. The first segment, "Burning Times", chronicles the horrific holocaust perpetrated against women during the witch trials of the Spanish Inquisition and in Salem, Massachusetts. The last chapter looks at the story of goddess worship in ancient and modern times. This episode focuses on feminine values of nurturing, the interdependence of all the earth's inhabitants, and honoring them with respect. Cultures of the past in which these values prevailed are highlighted in the film. The series emphasizes the need for the resurgence of feminine values in a world in which aggression and disrespect have caused such destruction. Women and Spirituality: Full Circle suggests bringing civilization back to a holistic state in which the strengths of both genders are honored. ~ Rose of Sharon Winter, All Movie Guide
- 1990
The Women and Spirituality series explores the history, repression, and resurgence of the women's spirituality movement. The Burning Times is part two of the series and is a moving documentary that underscores the particular repression that women have faced throughout history. From the 15th through the 17th centuries in Europe, thousands of women were tortured and executed because they were believed to be witches. Both church and state cooperated to eradicate the power that women had as midwives and healers -- and led the way for continued state-sanctioned violence against women. The voices of authors, teachers, and contemporary witches are all incorporated into this documentary exploration. The Burning Times outlines the destruction of what had been an organic way of life, while paying tribute to the strength of so many women. ~ Cara Saposnik, All Movie Guide
