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Plot summary

Rooted in Peace (2016) Plot Summary & Timeline

Rooted in Peace (2016) movie poster

Rooted in Peace is a 2016 documentary film directed by Greg Reitman, running 1 hour 37 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 258 words (about 1 minute to read) and covers 15 key events in order, 3 characters, where and when it is set and 3 themes. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for Rooted in Peace.

to read the plot summary
1 min
key events in the timeline
15
characters profiled
3
themes explained
3
Rooted in Peace (2016) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 37m
Director
Greg Reitman
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
No spoilers

What Is Rooted in Peace About?

The premise of Rooted in Peace in 341 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.

In a world pulsing with internal discord, environmental strain, and geopolitical tension, Greg Reitman invites viewers to pause and reconsider what it means to live as both an American and a global citizen. The documentary unfolds as a quiet yet urgent meditation on the ways personal values echo through ecosystems and societies, suggesting that the search for peace begins within each of us. Its visual language blends sweeping natural vistas with intimate close‑ups, creating a tone that feels both cinematic and conversational, as if the camera itself is sharing a reflective breath with the audience.

At the heart of the film, Greg Reitman serves as both guide and participant, weaving his own memoir‑like reflections into a broader tapestry of ideas. His presence is understated but compelling, offering a personal lens through which the larger questions of harmony and balance are explored. The cadence of his narration feels like a gentle inquiry, prompting viewers to ask what kind of future they wish to help shape, while never dictating a single answer.

A chorus of voices joins his journey, each interview turning into a succinct lesson on peace, ecology, and consciousness. Deepak Chopra lends a philosophical calm; Donovan and Mike Love bring a musical resonance that feels like a reminder of humanity’s shared rhythm; Pete Seeger adds a folk‑rooted call to stewardship. Visionary filmmaker David Lynch offers a surreal glimpse into imagination, while Nobel laureate Mairead Maguire and media pioneer Ted Turner speak to the power of collective action. The moral gravitas of Desmond Tutu intertwines with the sustainable design insight of William McDonough and the neuro‑developmental perspective of Dan Siegel, all echoing the timeless wisdom of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi about inner green‑ness blossoming into outer peace.

The overall mood is one of hopeful curiosity, a cinematic meditation that balances lyrical music, thoughtful interviews, and quiet landscapes. By framing the quest for inner tranquility as the seed for global harmony, the film sets a tone of gentle empowerment, inviting each viewer to embark on their own path toward a more balanced, peaceful world.

Full plot

What Happens in Rooted in Peace?

The complete story of Rooted in Peace, from the first scene to the last, in 258 words (about 1 minute). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.

Spoilers ahead

ROOTED in PEACE invites audiences to reflect on their values as both Americans and global citizens. In a world marked by internal, environmental, and international conflicts, director and acclaimed filmmaker Greg Reitman takes viewers on a transformative journey. He encourages us to notice the state of the world we inhabit, actively pursue routes to achieve both personal and ecological harmony, and break free from cycles of violence.

This compelling documentary intertwines personal memoirs with insightful interviews featuring prominent figures and advocates, such as Deepak Chopra, music icons Donovan, Mike Love, and Pete Seeger, acclaimed film director David Lynch, Nobel Peace Laureate Mairead Maguire, media tycoon Ted Turner, the esteemed Archbishop Desmond Tutu, renowned green architect William McDonough, and pioneering neuroscientist Dan Siegel. Each interview serves as a lesson, complemented by the wisdom of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, who stated that “if the forest is to be green, every tree must be green; if there’s going to be Peace on earth, then everybody needs to experience that quality of Peace within themselves.”

In posing the fundamental question of how we wish to live, Reitman calls on viewers to embark on their own quests for inner peace. His personal odyssey exemplifies the power of transformation—illustrating how one individual can initiate vital changes in their life, thereby inspiring those around them to strive for improvement in their own existence and in society at large. This film is not just a call to action; it is a heartfelt plea for collective awakening to the importance of harmony and understanding in today’s turbulent world.

Timeline

Rooted in Peace Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

15 key events in the order they happen, from “Introduction to Global Conflicts” to “Closing Reflections”.

  1. 1

    Introduction to Global Conflicts

    The documentary begins by highlighting the various internal, environmental, and international conflicts that shape our world. This sets the stage for the crucial discussion on peace and harmony, urging viewers to recognize and reflect on these challenges.

  2. 2

    Director's Vision

    Greg Reitman, the filmmaker, outlines his vision for the documentary. He emphasizes the importance of personal and ecological harmony, and the necessity for individuals to step outside the cycles of violence that have persisted in society.

  3. 3

    Personal Memoirs

    The film intertwines Reitman's personal memoirs, sharing his own experiences and struggles in finding peace within himself. Through these stories, viewers can connect with his journey and understand the transformative nature of seeking inner harmony.

  4. 4

    Deepak Chopra's Insights

    Acclaimed physician and author Deepak Chopra shares his views on wellness and the interconnectedness of humanity. His perspective emphasizes that individual health and peace are foundational for a harmonious global community.

  5. 5

    Messages from Music Icons

    Music legends Donovan, Mike Love, and Pete Seeger contribute to the dialogue on peace through their artistry. Their reflections on music as a unifying force illustrate how creativity can foster societal change.

  6. 6

    Wisdom from David Lynch

    Filmmaker David Lynch discusses the role of creativity and spirituality in achieving personal peace. He presents the idea that artistic expression can be a pathway to understanding and resolving internal conflicts.

  7. 7

    Nobel Laureate's Perspective

    Nobel Peace Laureate Mairead Maguire shares her experiences in advocating for peace in conflict zones. Her insights emphasize the urgent need for empathy and active engagement in dismantling violence.

  8. 8

    Ted Turner's Vision for Change

    Media tycoon Ted Turner speaks on the responsibility of global citizens to initiate change. He focuses on sustainable practices and international cooperation to address pressing global issues.

  9. 9

    Archbishop Desmond Tutu's Call

    Archbishop Desmond Tutu offers a poignant reminder of the moral imperative to pursue peace. His statements resonate deeply, encouraging a collective consciousness shift towards understanding and compassion.

  10. 10

    Green Architecture with William McDonough

    Renowned architect William McDonough discusses sustainable design as a means to create harmony with nature. His vision highlights how architecture can play a pivotal role in ecological balance.

Show the other 5 events of Rooted in Peace
  1. 11

    Neuroscience Meets Peace

    Neuroscientist Dan Siegel elaborates on the connection between neuroscience and interpersonal relationships. He explains how understanding our brains can lead to improved communication and emotional health.

  2. 12

    Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Wisdom

    Drawing from the teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the film presents the idea that true peace starts within. His famous quote emphasizes that collective peace requires individual peace, inspiring viewers to seek personal transformation.

  3. 13

    The Call to Action

    Reitman passionately calls on viewers to reflect on their lives and the choices they make. This moment encourages individuals to embark on personal journeys toward peace and improvement, both internally and in their communities.

  4. 14

    Collective Awakening

    The documentary culminates in a heartfelt plea for collective awakening. Reitman emphasizes the urgency of fostering understanding and harmony in today's tumultuous world, inspiring hope for a better future.

  5. 15

    Closing Reflections

    The film concludes by inviting viewers to carry forward the lessons learned. Reitman reminds everyone that they have the power to affect change in their lives and the world around them, urging a commitment to peace.

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in Rooted in Peace?

3 characters, among them Deepak Chopra, Desmond Tutu and Mairead Maguire: who each one is and the part they play in the story.

  • DC

    Deepak Chopra

    Deepak Chopra is a renowned physician and author known for his contributions to holistic health and spirituality. His insights on wellness and inner peace are integral to the film's narrative, as he emphasizes self-awareness and healing as foundational for achieving peace in the broader context of society.

    • 🌟 Influencer
    • 💬 Wellness
    • ✨ Spirituality
  • DT

    Desmond Tutu

    Archbishop Desmond Tutu is a celebrated figure known for his leadership in the anti-apartheid movement and his advocacy for peace and reconciliation. His moral authority and emphasis on forgiveness highlight a crucial perspective in the quest for global peace, providing a voice of hope and compassion in the film.

    • ✝️ Activist
    • 🎤 Leader
    • 🕊️ Peacemaker
  • MM

    Mairead Maguire

    As a Nobel Peace Laureate, Mairead Maguire is recognized for her commitment to peace and social justice. Her experiences and insights bring a powerful message of resilience and the importance of non-violence in achieving lasting peace, making her an influential voice in the documentary.

    • 🌍 Activist
    • 🕊️ Advocate
    • ✊ Human Rights
Setting

Where and When Is Rooted in Peace Set?

Where and when the story of Rooted in Peace unfolds, and why it matters.

When

The documentary reflects contemporary issues relevant to the current sociopolitical climate. It prompts viewers to consider the ongoing environmental, internal, and international conflicts that shape our world today. The message is a timeless plea for peace and reflects the trials and transformations of modern society.

Where

The film spans various locations globally, though specific places are not mentioned in the summary. It focuses on universal themes of peace and harmony that resonate across different cultures and societies. This makes it relevant to audiences everywhere, highlighting the interconnectedness of humanity.

Themes

What Are the Themes of Rooted in Peace?

3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Peace, Global Responsibility and Ecological Harmony.

  1. 01

    Peace

    The central theme of the movie is peace, both on a personal and global level. It urges viewers to seek inner harmony to foster a more peaceful world. Through personal stories and interviews, it illustrates the essential role each individual plays in achieving broader societal peace.

  2. 02

    Global Responsibility

    The film emphasizes the shared responsibility of global citizens to foster understanding and harmony. It challenges audiences to reflect on their values and actions in the context of international conflicts and environmental crises. The message is a reminder of the impact of collective action on a global scale.

  3. 03

    Ecological Harmony

    Ecological harmony is a recurring theme, encouraging individuals to cultivate a respectful relationship with the environment. The film asserts that personal growth and ecological sustainability are intertwined. This theme advocates for conscious living to ensure a thriving planet.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is Rooted in Peace?

Hopeful in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Hopeful
Pacing
Steady
Story
Straightforward
Intensity
Medium
Ending
Happy

A thoughtful and hopeful documentary that guides viewers on a reflective journey toward personal and global harmony, balancing serious global issues with an uplifting call for positive transformation.

  • reflective
  • hopeful
  • inspiring
  • transformative
  • contemplative
  • thought-provoking
  • inner peace
  • environmentalism
  • global conflict
  • personal transformation

Quiz

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Where to watch

Where to Watch Rooted in Peace

Rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

Streaming availability in the US, powered by JustWatch logo

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Movies Like Rooted in Peace With a Plot Summary

One film close to Rooted in Peace in story and themes that has a full plot summary here: Disturbing the Peace (2016).

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FAQ

Rooted in Peace Plot Questions

5 quick answers about Rooted in Peace, taken from the plot summary, character guide and setting on this page and the film’s credits.

What is Rooted in Peace about?

In a world pulsing with internal discord, environmental strain, and geopolitical tension, Greg Reitman invites viewers to pause and reconsider what it means to live as both an American and a global citizen.

Read the full plot summary

When and where does Rooted in Peace take place?

The documentary reflects contemporary issues relevant to the current sociopolitical climate. It prompts viewers to consider the ongoing environmental, internal, and international conflicts that shape our world today.

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in Rooted in Peace?

The story follows Deepak Chopra, Desmond Tutu and Mairead Maguire.

All the characters

What are the main themes of Rooted in Peace?

The summary picks out 3 themes: Peace, Global Responsibility and Ecological Harmony.

The themes explained

Who directed Rooted in Peace?

Rooted in Peace (2016) was directed by Greg Reitman and runs 1 hour 37 minutes.

Greg Reitman’s films

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