The Nature of Existence

The Nature of Existence takes viewers on a global journey to uncover answers to life’s biggest questions. Filmmaker Roger Nygard travels around the world, interviewing a diverse array of individuals about their beliefs, philosophies, and perspectives on why we exist and what our purpose might be. It features conversations with over 100 people from various walks of life, including theologians, scientists, skeptics, and everyday individuals.

Nygard’s quest leads him to explore the origins of the universe, the existence of God, and the role of religion in human society. He seeks out experts and spiritual leaders from different cultures and belief systems, ranging from renowned evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins to the 24th generation Chinese Taoist Master Zhang Chengda. The film also includes interviews with figures such as Indian spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik, and Stanford physicist Leonard Susskind.

Throughout the documentary, Nygard poses thought-provoking questions to his subjects, such as “Why do we exist?”, “What is our purpose?”, and “What is truth?”. He explores the conflict between science and religion, as well as the commonalities and differences among various worldviews. The film touches on topics like the nature of happiness, the concept of sin, and the human fascination with the afterlife.

While the film presents a multitude of viewpoints, it ultimately leaves the audience to draw their own conclusions about the nature of existence. Nygard’s personal reflections at the end of the documentary emphasize the ongoing nature of the search for meaning and the importance of continuing to learn and grow.