The Monk And The Gun tells the story of the madness that ensued in Bhutan after it became a democracy and the residents were not ready for it. The premise is solid and thankfully director Pawo Choyning Dorji treats the film amazingly and sensitively. The cinematography by Jigme Tenzing is spectacular. The multiple tracks are very interesting. The humour in the film is something to watch out for. Often, the climax in such film festival movies is abrupt or metaphorical. Here, the climax is out of the world. The film ends on a hopeful note. The performances of all lead actors like Tandin Wangchuk (Tashi; monk’s disciple), Tandin Sonam (Benji; guide), Harry Einhorn (Ronald), Deki Lhamo (Tshomo; who is told to assist by the headman) and Pema Zangpo Sherpa (Tshering Yangden; election official) are outstanding. All in all, The Monk And The Gun is the film of the year!
My rating – ***** out of 5!