How Bhutan redefined happiness through humor and film

How Bhutan redefined happiness through humor and film

at a time when the world is characterized by chaos and conflicts, Bhutan, a peaceful country in the Himalayas, offers a refreshing contrast. In the film "What does the lama want with the rifle?" Director Pawo ChoYning Dorji raises the question of how the introduction of the Internet, television and democracy affects the happiness of people. In this small kingdom, where the population had previously lived in peace, the king decides to make his people even happier.

The confusion between tradition and modern influences is the central theme of the film. While the residents believe that they are already happy, they suddenly have to learn what the election campaign means, and against the background of an action -packed program that runs on TV. A highly revered Lama, concerned about the changes, decides that measures must be taken. His plan? He instructs a young monk to get a rifle and announces an important ceremony. The anticipation in the village is growing, and the question remains: What does the lama intend to do with the rifle?

The film and its awards

"What does the lama want with the rifle?" is not only an entertaining film, but also a critical view of the respective cultural identity. Dorji Combines Humor with Deep Insights and reflects the peculiarities of his compatriots. The film was submitted by Bhutan for the Academy Award in the "Best International Film" category, as did Dorji's first feature film "Lunana-Happiness is in the Himalaya", which has already received an Oscar nomination. In addition to its Oscar nomination, the new BHUTAN film also caused a stir at International Film Festival such as Toronto, Telluride and Busan.

The combination of impressive landscape and a story that leads through the complexity of human emotions makes this film worth seeing. The press praised the satire as "truly delightful - and has bite". Spectators can look forward to a journey full of humor and warm moments, while the topic also raises serious questions about social change.

produced by Pawo Choyning Dorji in collaboration with Feng HSU and Stephanie Lai, this film tells a story that offers many entertaining and meaningful moments. The main actors include Tandin Wangchuk, Harry Einhorn and Tandin Phubz.

The film has a term of 107 minutes and comes from Bhutan and Taiwan. If you want to learn more about this special film, you can see the trailer on YouTube: watch trailer .

reservations for a demonstration can be made at ticket@kulturamland.at. Entry is voluntary, which means that spectators can decide for themselves how much the experience is worth. The admission takes place 30 minutes before the event begins.

This quirrly comedy, which appeals to important contemporary topics and at the same time captures the beauty of the Himalayas, is expected to address an audience that is looking for both entertainment and profound content.