Into Great Silence

A Glimpse Into Monastic Life

The Grande Chartreuse is considered one of the world's most ascetic monasteries. In 1984, German filmmaker Philip Groning wrote to the Carthusian order for permission to make a documentary about them. They said they would get back to him. Sixteen years later, they were ready.

Winner of the Special Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

"A transcendental piece of filmmaking." - Steven Rea,Philadelphia Inquirer

"...emphasizes the virtues of the ascetic life, returning again and again to the idea of giving away all possessions in order to become a true disciple." - John Hartl, Seattle Times