Zen Buddhism is famous for koans, or paradoxical riddles or cases. The koan in this film is: how can Zen monks successfully adapt an age-old tradition to modern life?

How do modern-day monks compare to the religious ideals? rigidity of monastery?

some things that recommend this film: - fancy dances, see impressive Zen rituals - human portrayal of entrants into the monastery - COMEDY: fat monk Chinran, 80s office lady girlfriend who acts cute but takes charge, singing rock-star monk, senile Zen master - wry cinematography

You'd be better off watching this film if you've background knowledge of the Japanese monastic institution. The film doesn't explain much of the context.