Debra Sanders

It’s hard to write a review about this film in just a few words, because this film is provocative on so many levels, and it stimulates so many emotions and sensations that are, of course, impossible to address in a small space.

So, I will just say this: I wanted this film to go on forever. I wanted to stay inside those caves and listen to Ra Paulette talk, and I wanted to keep on feeling his words because somehow they seemed to wrap around and envelop me in the same way down quilts on cold Alaskan nights used to do. I felt a kinship and understanding in his words and in his passion that was as familiar to me as those ancient and well-loved, often-used quilts. And that made watching this film an experience of comfort and joy for me.
I wanted this film to keep on going so I could watch the ongoing construction of what seriously should be considered the eighth wonder of the world. Because what Ra Paulette has created is both remarkable and wondrous on SO many levels—from the artistry and design, to the fact that all these caves were created by one single man, without power tools, without a crew, and without a floor plan. His caves are carved not after being drafted on a computer, or sketched out in a corporate drawing room, but rather, out of his willingness and uncanny ability to listen and to feel. Ra Paulette hears the rocks speak, he feels the rooms that beg to be created, and then he swings his hand held tool, and he begins to carve. To create.

I cannot begin to tell you how many times, after watching the film, I’ve gone back and looked at the photos of Ra Paulette’s caves. Each time I am no less awed. These are rooms I want to take my dogs into, and stay in. Like, for months; maybe forever. Ra Paulette heard the rocks speak in order to create these sanctuaries, and now I feel these sanctuaries speak.

And the feelings they evoke are powerful.

Ra Paulette said something in the film about maybe the problem is that he never grew up, while everyone around him did. He referenced the Peter Pan Syndrome. But that label carries a negative connotation, and while I don’t doubt that Ra Paulette’s wife must surely deserve some sort of medal as the world’s most patient and supportive spouse, the only part of Ra Paulette that has remained a child (at least as far as I can tell from this short film) is his uncanny ability to be real. To be still. To carve cathedrals out of rock for no other gain than to inspire others to feel and breathe and look inward and look upward. The world would be such a much better, kinder, gentler place if we all retained that ability, rather than learn early on to disregard it in pursuit of more “lofty”, “prestigious” goals. If Ra Paulette suffers from Peter Pan Syndrome, then may more of us do so.

Without fanfare or formal interviews, this filmmaker managed to expose the world to what I think is not just one of the most creative, gifted, talented men on the planet, but to one of the bravest. And I loved that he did that. He didn't point it out or tell us...he just let us experience it and draw our own conclusions.

The only criticism I have (besides that I wish it was hours longer) is that Ra Paulette’s faithful companion was never properly introduced. Surely he plays as significant a role in his life as the people who spoke! I would have loved to know his name and more about him.

But, that’s a small criticism. I loved this film. Five stars doesn’t do it justice.

Ann Spillane

Saw the film last night - brilliant documentary and so wonderful to see a passionate artist with integrity and without today's focus on profit. The documentary or a least photos should be included in the collection of the Whitney, NYC and also the new CrystalBridges Museum Bentonville AR- both celebrate American Art and Ra embodies the best! Where can I buy a copy of the film? Congratulations to the director for his choice and honest and beautiful depiction- masterfully captured.

Rick

Awesome is where I would start. The people in this film are very interesting. The story was so different and amazing. Seeing what Ra created from a mountain was amazing. Using only his wit, hand tools and determination made it almost unbelievable.

plpowers

Ra is the quintessential artist that finds art in what nature
has offered to him.

The beauty he uncovers and the workman-like way he goes about it are uncomparable and uncompromising.

Well done. Amazing.

It is too bad his effort has not been more well rewarded.

The film is a fitting showing of his work and a piece of art as well. Thank you for sharing it with all of us.

lonnieh

I visited Ra's "Windows of the Earth" (The Sandstone Shrine) near Ojo Caliente several times before it was closed to the public and I was profoundly affected by it. I am so grateful for this intimate view of the artist. The film bears witness to his vision, passion, and humanity. A labor of love - both the cave digging and the film! Thank you both.

dgthewoundedwarrior

This was one of the most interesting and enjoyable documentaries I've ever seen. Kudos to Jeff. May there be many more.

sandrajoy

It's rare to see a film about an artist and feel you are actually experiencing his/her creative process. CAVEDIGGER is visually gorgeous a tribute to both the director and Ra the extraordinary,original and until now unknown artist. Karoff has captured the passion that drives Ra to create art for the simple joy and beauty it gives to him and us.

lpalley

This is a visually stunning film. I felt a level of satisfaction from CAVEDIGGER that I don't often feel from a documentary--like I was given just what I needed for it to be a complete experience.

brittbeck2

A beautiful, unique and captivating film. The tensions Ra faced as an artist, with his clients, with his friends, with his wife, were interesting, emotional and thought-provoking.

[email protected]

This film takes you inside one artist's life, one who creates intimate, beautiful spaces out of raw earth and stone. So too with CAVEDIGGER, a film that gives us intimate and human insights into this raw personality.

cdorr

In Hollywood, the highest compliment you can give a storyteller or filmmaker is that the piece was so well done the audience was enraptured with the STORY, not the process. Karoff pulled that off in spades. "Cavedigger" is the kind of film that makes you want to share it immediately, and proof that actual human beings living life may provide the most engaging narrative of all.

elfeld

This film brings loving attention to an obscure artist, a cavedigger, in New Mexico. The filmmaker reveals not only phenomenal art hidden away underground, but also the makeup of the man who is driven to create it. It is an unusual and lovely film to experience.

[email protected]

Inspiring, beautiful,captivating,passionate. Cavedigger generates feelings of awe and admiration in the viewer for the cavedigger as well as the filmmaker. This is a meaningful film a numerous levels.

lik6467

What's a Cavedigger one posits before viewing this incredibly captivating documentary? Well the answer is beautifully shown in this stunning film on the life of someone who is completely wrapped up in his mission to create these spectacular formations. Description is impossible, it must be seen.

joepicc

A must see! A passionate filmmaker capturing the essence of another truly passionate artist.

wsiembab

This film tells a compelling story of a unique artist whose work most people will never see. The film is compact, polished and visually thrilling. See it if you can.

lisa@fastaccounting

I was so inspired by Ra following his passion with little monetary reward. Jeff Karoff captures his passion, his life, his essence. The caves are intricate and breathtakingly beautiful. True Art. I LOVED this movie. You have to see it!

elizabethanders

Not only is this a photographically beautiful film, it is a wonderful example of intimate storytelling. It is tight and careful in terms of editing yet it is a complete examination of an artist. We learn how and why Ra works and , from that, we understand more about our own relationship to art. The film stimulates thought about what role art plays in the world and why artists work even when they are relatively unknown. It's just so well done.

[email protected]

A passionate portrayal of a passionate artist. This film stays with you long after the end credits.

leftygtr

An inspiring and deeply human look at an artist driven by his work, somewhere between Michelangelo painting a certain chapel, a knight seeking the Holy Grail and Sisyphus pushing his boulder ... Beautiful images and artwork, land art from within.

acechaite

Crazy about this film, not many folks around doing art work anything like this. Beautiful.

cut24fps(at)hotmail.com

Wasn't sure how watchable this film was going to be based on the subject matter. However, it was really deep. Let me thinking about how I live my life, and the choices I have made. Bravo!

MDORF

Great film. Really unique documentary about an incredible individual. Makes you wonder "How does he do it" , "What's next" and "Where is he now." You can't help but fall in love with "The Cave Digger"

anna.booker(at)gmail.com

The scenes of the caves are unbelievably beautiful. You'll leave this film wanting to go to New Mexico to see them for yourself. I was gripped by the story of the cavedigger, Ra. If you liked Rivers and Tides, this is a don't miss film.

Caroline Tann

Cavedigger leads you in the miraculous world of cathedrals cut out of sandcaves and its amazing creator Ra. It encourages in the audience the child within you, the ability to marvel at things that in a grown up world might seem useless at first glance, because there is no economic benefit in it. At the same time it is so nurturing to the soul as art is the language of the soul and therefore it makes you so happy. So be prepared to walk out of the cinema with a big smile on your face and the urgent desire to travel to New Mexico to marvel at the cathedrals yourself.

henrymurray

Not only is this man's cave carving astonishing, but his trust in the filmaker is obvious. The filmaker has really exposed the soul of the artist.

Bill Budge

Truly incredible scenes of cave digging...images from this film are stuck in my head six months later. The combination of drop dead gorgeous surroundings, the remarkable protagonist, Ra, and the caves is astonishing.

kbazumsell

Such a great film! The story is very intriguing and I was amazed by his work and the process. The caves are breathtaking. Very nice to see a documentary celebrating such a unique talent. I have recommended this film to my parents & friends already.

erika michel

A must see for any Art lover!

sierrahotel

Beautifully crafted film about a piece of Americana that virtually no one knew about. The tone, style and music all suck the viewer right in. And at the very end there is a technical shot that I defy you to figure out how it was done. Great effort!

nbsemer

A beautifully filmed documentary about a person and art form I knew little about. I was mesmerized.

bloomster

Loved this film. I found myself completely involved in the story and intrigued by his unique brand of art.

acarey

Loved this film. Such a well told unique story. Was completely captivated by the caves and could feel the grandness of them.

clintonbill

A really unusual story about a guy doing astonishing work -- and the crazy people around him. Left me wanting to know a lot more!

Janeroll (at)aol.com

This film was magnificent. Very interesting subject matter. Beautifully shot. Deserves a wide distribution.

lik6467

What's a Cavedigger one posits before viewing this incredibly captivating documentary? Well the answer is beautifully shown in this stunning film on the life of someone who is completely wrapped up in his mission to create these spectacular formations. Description is impossible, it must be seen.

ziggs

Beautifully crafted film with such an amazing subject matter. I've never seen anything quite like it. Def would recommend to others

mrlithgow(at)gmail.com

unforgettable, beautifully made, extraordinary subject.

everbeck

Every documentary film fan needs to see this film. It's packed with engaging characters and innovative story telling.

seacoop

So moving and visually stunning. Do not miss seeing this film!

Lewin Wertheimer

A unique and beautiful film and story about a unique and talented artist. A must see!!!!!

veejeekay

This film captures the beauty of the impossible dream - it leaves you face-melting inspiring and smiling. Can't wait to see it again.

Dvosin

This is a mesmerizing story about an exceptional artist. I'd LOVE to be able to visit his art sites but in place of that, I'm grateful to the film for taking me on the journey. Beautiful!

bruce(at)originalfilm.com

A beautiful and captivating film about a truly inspiring individual who has spent his life following his dream. A most moving experience and a film not to be missed.

shelneymark

The film beautifully captures the life and work of a man who truly follows his passion. A rare and inspiring film about a rare and inspiring individual.

Joe Picc

A must see! A passionate filmmaker capturing the essence of another truly passionate artist.

heathbinder

It's tough for me to be objective because I know the filmmaker. That said, I also have a terrible attention span and stayed focused on this documentary the entire way through. Two thoughts on this film. First, the subject, Ra, is a really interesting person who creates spaces/caves that need to be seen to be believed. Words don't really do his work justice. Second, what I like about the film is, I feel like Jeffrey captures a bunch of Ra's interesting quirks - essentially, what makes Ra, Ra - without pushing any sort of agenda. Capturing something and someone spectacular in a subtle way is really hard to do. Again, I know Jeffrey but wouldn't write that if I didn't think the film were very special.