The movie, "The Minimalists: Less Is Now", starring Joshua Fields Millburn, Ryan Nicodemus, and Dave Ramsey, takes a closer look at the concept of minimalism, and how it can change the way we live our lives. The documentary takes a deeper dive into the minimalist lifestyle and its benefits, with the ultimate goal of inspiring viewers to reconsider their own relationship with material possessions.
The film opens with Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, better known as The Minimalists, detailing their own stories of how they came to embrace minimalism as a way of life. The two friends first met in high school and after a series of life events, they both found themselves burnt out and unfulfilled by their consumerist lifestyles. They eventually realized that lasting happiness cannot be found in material possessions, leading them to pursue a simpler, more meaningful existence.
The documentary presents a series of interviews with other minimalists, including Dave Ramsey, a well-known financial expert and radio personality. Ramsey contributes his own thoughts on minimalism, including how it can help people better manage their finances and lead to long-term financial security. Other contributors share their own experiences with minimalism, touching on topics such as decluttering, consumerism, and environmentalism.
Throughout the film, the theme of mindfulness is highlighted, with minimalism being portrayed as a tool for achieving greater clarity of mind. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and question their attachment to material possessions. This reflective quality is underscored by the film's interweaving of tranquil, scenic shots and minimalist interiors, which serve to emphasize the beauty and simplicity of minimalism.
The film also explores the idea that minimalism is not just about reducing the amount of "stuff" in one's life, but about creating space for more meaningful experiences. It suggests that with fewer possessions, people can become more aware of their own thoughts and emotions, leading to greater personal growth and self-awareness.
The documentary also discusses the significant impact our consumer culture has on the environment. The Minimalists detail the devastating effects of consumerism on the planet and introduce alternative approaches to living sustainably. The film emphasizes that minimalism can be a powerful tool for fostering a more eco-friendly and sustainable world.
Overall, "The Minimalists: Less Is Now" presents a persuasive case for embracing minimalism as a way of life. The film is well-produced and aesthetically pleasing, with crisp visuals and emotive soundtracks. The interviews are thoughtful and informative, presenting a diversity of perspectives on the topic of minimalist living. The themes explored in the film are relevant and important, and the documentary is likely to be of interest to anyone looking to make a positive lifestyle change.
The Minimalists: Less Is Now is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.