Dan's Comments on the Peaceful Warrior Film:

I'm grateful that a film company was willing to invest millions of dollars to adapt my story to the film medium.  

I had no say over choice of director or actors — nor did I have any control over the script. Some years earlier, I had written my own script, but (through odd circumstances) the producers and director only saw it a few weeks before principal photography began. However, the director was able to incorporate about 10 pages of my script — several new scenes, and some dialogue into the final film. Other than this small contribution, the project was, for me, an education in stepping back, letting go, and supporting the filmmakers in this collaborative art form.

The movie is based only loosely upon the book (which is based upon incidents in my  life). After watching a private screening, Joy and I concluded that overall, the film had some quality moments, and managed to convey some of the spirit and teachings from the book. As with most book-to-film translations, the book tells a deeper story.  Still, the film has become something of a classic in the area of "spiritual cinema, in that it has inspired many filmgoers who seek reminders about what's really important in life.  

If you wish to more deeply understand (and live) with a  peaceful heart and warrior spirit, I encourage you to read my other core teaching books, including Wisdom of the Peaceful Warrior, an essential companion to my first book.  Together, my books provide a comprehensive course  in the peaceful warrior's way.

Good journeys,

Your Comments

Thank you so very much for the movie...I had not read the book, and now will. My husband took me...no words to express my deep gratitude on so many levels. I called friends and will be taking them to see Peaceful Warrior.

Jane B.

A friend and I drove 4 hours yesterday to see your movie. It was well worth it! We were moved and thrilled. I have shared with everyone on my email list. The potential I see for this movie in reaching the hearts of so many and helping transform lives is beyond words. What an amazing movie! (Nolte was perfect.) May it reach all the corners! What perfect timing…

Karon M.

Last night I saw your movie with 2 friends. Outstanding! My friends said immediately that they wanted to own it. I'm calling all my Seattle Unity Church pals and telling them this movie is a "must see"

Jeffry M.

A friend and I saw the movie Saturday night and both enjoyed it a lot. You were very fortunate to wind up with Victor Salva. I thought he got the mysticism across really well and found a lot of poetry.

David S.

My friend just emailed me the following note; I thought you might like to see it:

She said, "I was in the checkout line this evening and the girl in front of me turns to me and says 'You, know, I just saw the greatest movie, I just want to tell you...' and of course, the movie? It was Peaceful Warrior!! She said she was bawling it touched her so much . . . So now I have to see it for myself. . ."

Yvette M.

I loved the movie; the casting was perfect! Later, I saw Ebert and Roeper's review of the movie and thought the Miyagi comparison showed how far off they were in their understanding of the film. It was interesting to me to see how shallow their review was. Roeper was all cerebral and heartless, Ebert started to get in touch with his feelings about it but fell short. . .

Ric P.

Just saw the movie and loved it. I was concerned that it wouldn't stay true to the book but it really did. Thank you so much for all of your hard work and . . . letting people get your message of hope.

Steve G.

Congratulations on a fantastic movie. Three friends and I went to see it today. We so enjoyed it! It was so well done and we both teared up at the end. What a difference it is going to make in the world to have such a beautiful movie with such great teachings, so simple yet so profound. I want to take my son to see it too when he's finished with school.

Nancy C.

Wow, this film will be big! It is a high-quality movie – the best spiritual cinema genre film I have seen yet. I wouldn't be surprised if "Peaceful Warrior" becomes a significant turning point in getting Hollywood to pay attention to this genre. It will inspire a great many people to begin thinking about what is clogging their own minds.

Brad W.