Celestine Prophecy: The Making of the Movie

Celestine Prophecy

by James Redfield, Monty Joynes

In 1993, a relatively unknown psychotherapist from Birmingham, Alabama, self-published a spiritual adventure novel with an intriguing The Celestine Prophecy . James Redfield and his partner-wife, Salle, then peddled it to bookstores throughout the South, giving a copy to any bookseller who would agree to read it. The word of mouth quickly spread, and the Redfields sold 100,000 copies before Warner Books picked it up and made it the bestselling American book in the world in 1995 and 1996. Today there are more than 12 million copies of The Celestine Prophecy in print in more than 50 languages around the world. A decade later, in March 2004, the principal filming of The Celestine Prophecy began in the tropical forest of Washington Oaks State Gardens, south of St. Augustine, Florida. Directed by Armand Mastrioanni from a screenplay co-written by James Redfield and Emmy-nominated producer Barnet Bain, the film dramatically brings the Nine Insights from printed page to silver screen. This making-of-the-movie book documents this astonishing achievement and takes you inside the imagination of the remarkable people who came together to fulfill James Redfield's ultimate vision. From preproduction to the final wrap and editing, here are the producers, the director, actors, and crew caught in the moviemaking process. Lavishly illustrated with more than 160 full-color photos, The Celestine The Making of the Movie features production stills, production design artwork, and frames from the movie. Here, too, is a narrative not only of the journey from book to film, but also of the heroic quest that John, played by Matthew Settle, takes for us and with us. On one level, it is a riveting adventure story fraught with danger and suspense. On another level, it is a spiritual journey with the power to transform. Just as the novel's Nine Insights ignited a worldwide dialog about spiritual awareness and the evolutionary future of humanity, the film is certain to reignite and expand that dialog to a whole new audience.

Genres: Spirituality

168 pages, Hardcover

First published October 21, 2005

About the author

James Redfield is the author of The Celestine Prophecy and The Tenth Insight. He writes widely on the topic of human spiritual awareness and is active in the worldwide effort to save our last remaining wilderness areas. James lives with his wife, Salle, and cat, Meredith, in Alabama and Arizona.

Reviews

[Via Luino · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting ideas and philosophy! I was disappointed in the writing, though.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second or third time I've read this book. It is so good. A real classic and a right of passage into new spirituality if you ask me. This was the first book that described my own awakening. LOVE IT!

[Casey Gregory · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield is a spiritual adventure novel that follows a man’s journey through Peru as he uncovers nine ancient insights about human connection, energy, and the deeper meaning of life. Blending fiction with philosophy, the book weaves together themes of synchronicity, intuition, and personal growth, inviting readers to reflect on how they interact with others and the world around them.

While I recognize The Celestine Prophecy isn’t for everyone—some may find the narrative a little mystical or unconventional—it left me with an important takeaway: how to love more intentionally. The story’s exploration of synchronicities and mindful relationships made me pause and consider the energy I bring into my connections with others.

I wouldn’t call it perfect—parts of the writing felt dated or overly simplistic—but the message resonated deeply with me. For that reason, I give it 4 stars. It’s a book I’m glad I read, and one I’d recommend to anyone open to exploring a different lens on spirituality and human connection.

[Katherine Ruales · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like The Celestine Prophecy because it makes me feel more connected to the world and to myself. The book takes these big, spiritual ideas and breaks them down into something practical. Like noticing coincidences, paying attention to energy, and understanding how our interactions shape us. It’s not about “having all the answers,” but about becoming more aware and intentional.

I like that it blends adventure with philosophy. It doesn’t feel preachy; it feels like an invitation to look at life differently. The insights make you question your patterns, your relationships, and the way you move through the world. It’s the kind of story that leaves you thinking long after you put it down.

Ultimately, I like it because it gives language to something I’ve always felt. That everything is connected, that our intuition matters, and that there’s more meaning in everyday experiences than we realize.

[Srinivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The girl who suggested this book became my every thought, she became a every word and every emotion in my every poem in every walk. And she's my 'Coincidence' which the universe conspired of.

[Shyra Nacht · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent Book!

[Mike McGough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this perspective on life. A reminder that nature has hidden powers.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book on the evolution of human consciousness and spirituality. Such a cool thing to integrate a self-help vibe into a story of adventure and growth. Writing style was alright but you can tell the whole point was to get the message across about the growth and evolution. Still absolutely incredible, I loved it and will be lending it to as many people as I can. People need to read this book!!

[Trish]

Great