BigdaddyDave's Review

Summary - Good 3.0

An enjoyable film from the Kingdom of Bhutan, located in central Asia. Dondup is a local pseudo-government official who dreams of going to America for a new life. He finally decides to leave his quiet little village, and walks down the path the to mountain road which will take him to the major city. While waiting for a bus, and hitchhiking, he comes across a Buddhist monk, an apple seller, a widowed rice-paper maker with his daughter, and a drunk. Over drinks, the monk tells a story that is supposed to represent Dondup, filled with lust, honor, and destiny. Therefore, this movie really is a "movie-within-a-movie.” Once the story is over, the man must decide whether it is better to continue on his journey or not.

The movie was filmed entirely on location, using locals for actors, so it has a wonderful authentic feeling to it. I was captivated by the Buddhist monk and his story, finding the locals thoroughly enjoyable. Although it was filmed in the Dzongkha language, the subtitles were more than adequate in keeping me up with the stories.

I’ve come to enjoy watching movies that express the local customs, traditions, and languages. In some ways, it feels like a nice escape, providing glimpses into other cultures. This movie provided me that escape, while still managing to convey a nice folktale, set in beautiful scenery. It’s almost like reading the National Geographic magazines that my parents have in the house. Fascinating pictures of far-away lands and inetresting stories that you can enjoy for a short while.

I know that foreign films are not for everyone, but I felt a certain affinity for this one. It was worth the try.

Watched on demand on Netflix.

Acting - Good 3.0

Real residents were used in this film.

Film - Very Good 3.5

I can only imagine how difficult it was to get all of the camera equipment to the locations, let alone film on the side of a mountain. Beautiful scenery and more than adequate “dream sequences” bolster this film, along with authentic music and clothing.

Edge - Tame 1.2

Reality - Surreal 2.9

Some surreal dreams that may or may not have been from drinking alcohol.

2 Comments

• BigdaddyDave Mar 1, 2011 6:10AM

  Regarding BigdaddyDave’s Review
  I’ve really come to appreciate watching films that present a different cultural view than my own, and this certainly didn’t disappoint.

• Wick Feb 28, 2011 9:13PM

  Regarding BigdaddyDave’s Review
  Wow. What an interesting pick BigD. I’ve added it to my Gotta VuList.

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