One of the greatest storytellers of our time, and arguably the greatest mythologist, Joseph Campbell spent most of his long, rich career explaining how ancient myths like the Hero’s Journey are relevant to modern life. In understanding the importance of myth as a vital, vibrant source of "mankind’s one great story," Campbell inspired others to embark on a quest for the meaning of myth in their own lives. This biographical portrait, filmed shortly before his death in 1987, follows Campbell’s personal quest—a pathless journey of questioning, discovery, and ultimately of delight and joy in a life to which he said, "Yes."
Writing
Campbell's metaphors hit different at 3am.
Direction
Intimate portrait of a mind nearing its end.
Director
Janelle Balnicke
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Campbell directly inspired George Lucas's Star Wars structure; without this film, The Last Jedi discourse wouldn't exist.
Campbell's 'follow your bliss' was later co-opted by self-help culture, but he meant something more rigorous — a disciplined pursuit of meaning, not just happiness.
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