These days, “zen” is often used as shorthand for any guide to a discipline that advocates focus and not sweating the small stuff. But after watching “The Zen of Bennett” (as in famous singer Tony Bennett), the title is by far the most appropriate. Although we see a Buddha statue in the background only once, and although Mr. Bennett never speaks of spirituality in any overt way, he comes across as coolly invested in wisdom and Buddha nature. If only we could be this serene and talented when we hit 86 years old.
In this documentary, produced by Mr. Bennett’s son Danny and directed by Unjoo Moon with a series of dreamy, prismatic images, we follow Mr. Bennett as he travels across the States and over to Italy to record a series of duets with contemporary artists both young and established, from Carrie Underwood to Willie Nelson.