2019 ( Bhutan | China) ( Drama , Family )
( Dzongkha and English with English Subtitles )
Starring: Sherab Dorji, Ugyen Norbu Lhendup, Kelden Lhamo Gurung
Director: Pawo Choyning Dorji
“Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom” is a sweet, understated and wistfully beautiful film about an antsy young cynic sent to teach in the most remote schoolhouse on Earth. He is ordered to Lunana to complete his national service. What he’d prefer is traveling to Australia to sing English language pop covers in the bars on Bondi Beach. But what’s a self-absorbed lad to do when the entire village worshipfully welcomes him, pouring respect on a teacher, someone who “can touch the future?” What’ll he do when he sees the eager faces of the moppets who will be under his care?
The authenticity of this story, written and directed by Dorji is stunning and thoroughly engaging. He has found a new way to explore a coming of age story that is far from trite or expected. It’s a simple story with a big heart — and a reminder of film’s ability to communicate universal truths across international borders. It’s an absolute gem.
(1hr 50min)