Guns, Monks, and Democracy Intersect

Read Time:3 Minute, 52 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Monk and the Gun
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 47m
Director(s): Pawo Choyning Dorji
Writer(s): Pawo Choyning Dorji
Cast: Tandin Wangchuk, Deki Lhamo, Pema Zangmo Sherpa, Tandin Sonam, Harry Einhorn, Choeying Jatsho, Tandin Phubz, Yuphel Lhendup Selden, Kelsang Choejay
Where To Watch: coming to select theaters February 9, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: I want to start my review by saying it's an absolute travesty that the Academy didn’t nominate this film after shortlisting it. Pawo Choyning Dorji's THE MONK AND THE GUN offers a stunning look into Bhutan's transformation, all seen through an intelligent, well-thought-out, and empowering narrative. Following his previous cinematic success, the Oscar-nominated LUNANA: A YAK IN THE CLASSROOM, Dorji dives deeper into Bhutan's essence with a storyline that depicts the country's changing landscape as an inner quest for its characters. At its heart, the film explores the intersection of the old and the new, tradition and democracy, through a tale that's grand in scope and intimate in detail.

Dorji skillfully tackles a rich fabric of stories centering on a unique request for a firearm—a quest that leads to unexpected revelations and challenges. This narrative vehicle drives us through Bhutan's scenic vistas and into the lives of characters who embody the nation's diverse reactions to impending change. From a disciple's dedicated pursuit to an educator's efforts and an American collector's ambitions, the film captures the cultural collisions and harmonies that define this pivotal moment in Bhutan's history. The story is simple, but that’s part of what makes the film work. While the narrative is focused on the “what,” the film gets to focus on the “who” and does so uniquely and intimately.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of rural Ura, THE MONK AND THE GUN navigates the complex emotions surrounding Bhutan's introduction to electoral democracy. Dorji's ambitious vision aims to encapsulate the beauty of Bhutanese tradition and the uncertainties of modernization, offering a window into the challenges societies face at the crossroads of progress.

A standout feature of THE MONK AND THE GUN is its authentic use of non-professional Bhutanese actors, which adds a layer of realism and heart to the storytelling. This choice enriches the film with genuine performances that connect audiences to Bhutan's soul. However, I’ve seen that Harry Einhorn's role as the American collector has sparked discussions about casting choices, suggesting a slight mismatch that somewhat dilutes the otherwise authentic narrative atmosphere. Honestly, I don’t know that his role was so vital to the story that it would have required “an actor” like him; honestly, they could have found someone else to easily fill that role.

THE MONK AND THE GUN is a testament to the power of storytelling in capturing a nation's shift. It's a visually striking, emotionally resonant film that invites viewers to reflect on the balance between preserving heritage and embracing change. The film shines as a profound exploration of Bhutan's journey toward democracy, making it a compelling watch for anyone fascinated by the dynamics of cultural evolution and the storytelling magic that brings such transformations to life. Dorji's film not only narrates Bhutan's historical transition but also poses universal questions about identity, community, and the future in an ever-changing world.

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[photo courtesy of ROADSIDE ATRTACTIONS]

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