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Pig at the Crossing
Pig at the Crossing is a 2024 Bhutanese feature film written and directed by Khyentse Norbu, known for his works such as The Cup and Travellers and Magicians. Produced by Norling Studios, the film explores themes of morality, attachment, and existential reckoning through the lens of Buddhist philosophy. It was primarily filmed in Bhutan and features a mix of Dzongkha and English dialogues.
Plot
The story follows Dolom, a 29-year-old YouTube creator and school teacher in Bhutan, who has an affair with a married woman, Deki. When Deki discovers she is pregnant, Dolom devises a plan to conceal the affair. However, a tragic motorcycle accident propels Dolom into an otherworldly realm between life and death. Guided by a mysterious figure, he confronts his past misdeeds and wrestles with the decision to let go of his earthly attachments or remain trapped in the liminal state.
Cast
- Kuenzang Norbu as Dolom
- Prasanna B. Hambarde as Fortune Teller
- Additional cast includes emerging Bhutanese talent.
Production
The film was shot on a modest budget, employing minimalist production techniques. Khyentse Norbu opted for naturalistic lighting and avoided the use of special effects, aligning with the film’s thematic elements. A significant portion of the cast and crew consisted of young Bhutanese artists making their debut in cinema.
Release and Reception
Despite being rejected by 30 international film festivals, Pig at the Crossing premiered online on May 11, 2024. The virtual premiere attracted a wide audience, with multiple screenings tailored to different time zones. Critics have praised Kuenzang Norbu’s performance and the film’s meditative storytelling, though its unconventional narrative and lack of clear delineation between the living and the dead left some viewers puzzled.
Themes
The film delves into Buddhist concepts such as the relativity of time, the illusion of continuity, and the moral consequences of human actions. Norbu describes it as his most “Buddhist” film to date, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual backdrop of Bhutan.
Legacy
The online release of Pig at the Crossing bypassed traditional distribution channels, highlighting the growing potential of digital platforms for independent filmmakers to reach global audiences. The film’s unique approach has sparked discussions about the future of cinema in the digital age.
For more details, visit the official website at www.pigcrossing.film【31】【32】【33】.