Synopsis: The Monk And The Gun captures the wonder and disruption as Bhutan becomes one of the world’s youngest democracies. Known throughout the world for its extraordinary beauty and its emphasis on Gross National Happiness, the remote Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan was the last nation to connect to the internet and television. And if that weren’t enough change, the King announced shortly afterwards that he would cede his power to the people via their vote and a new form of government: Democracy.
It’s easy to think that your way of life is superior if you’ve never taken the time to experience any other way or attempted to perceive other viewpoints. Moreover, it doesn’t make it any easier when you are born into an overreaching and intrusive national identity that tells you every chance that it can that there is only one way: their way. From culture, traditions, religion, music, marriage, food, and celebrations, to thought, as long as everyone is safe differences shouldn’t be feared. While it’s perfectly fine to challenge a perspective, encroaching ‘just because’ is unnecessary. There is no one right way to achieve happiness and peace. However, there are a myriad of wrong ways.
“People in other countries are willing to kill each other for this right.”
Sometimes you need to see yourself from someone else’s perspective to properly evaluate how ridiculous you potentially are. Written and Directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji, The Monk and The Gun is a respectful critique and reluctant embrace of Western ways. Filled almost entirely with a cast of feature first-timers, this film is the gentlest reminder to “live and let live” and “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” While change and evolution are necessary for overall growth, they should matriculate naturally rather than by force. It’s especially pertinent when there are seemingly zero issues at hand. At its core, this is the meal that the story brings to the table. Additionally, it serves secondary questions of who and when these calls should be made. Lastly, there is the most glaring question of all. What does a monk need with a gun?
Set in 2006 in the beautiful and peaceful South Asian country of Bhutan, this satirical comedy places an American gun collector on its doorstep. His arrival is simultaneous with the arrival of Western influence as television and the internet finally set up shop in the Buddhist kingdom. With it comes the presence of a never-before-experienced democratic system and a mock election that proceeds it. In the forefront, a race to retrieve the only gun in the country ensues. Unbeknownst to the monk, who is sent to retrieve the killing machine by his Lama for spiritual reasons, he and the American are after the same war weapon. However, the man from the foreign western land is willing to pay whatever it requires to possess the gun. As the intertwining story progresses, we see the effects of the divisive two-party system and how it is viewed by the outside world. As the film examines the new concepts in the most tender way possible, the untroubled villagers want to know what our American brains no longer ask, why the process is so uncivil?
“Why are you teaching us to be so rude?”
Wonderfully shot, this polite call-out of the eroding political pillar that is democracy is a joy to watch. It’s got charm, wit, and a mystery that leads to its funniest moment. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, you’ll experience culture, and it just might start a philosophical conversation. If you take nothing away from the film, at least receive the sentiment that even if things change, the goodness within people doesn’t have to. It may not appeal to everyone, but The Monk and The Gun is a delightful surprise. While it’s easy to follow and goes down smoothly like a cup of sweet milk tea, its impact is strongly felt. Its rewatchability is medium.
Pace & Pop
The film harbors a crowd-pleasing pace. Because of its interesting and mysterious nature, the climax arrives before you know it. What popped for me was the story’s subtle comedic moments. Written in such an easygoing manner, the moments come effortlessly and are emphasized by hilarious nonchalance.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Tandin Wangchuk, Kelsang Choejey, Deki Lhamo, Pema Zangpo Sherpa, Tandin Sonam, Harry Einhorn, Choeying Jatsho, Tandin Phubz, Ugyen Dorji, Yuphel Lhendup Selden
Despite the vast majority of the cast being newcomers, they did exceptionally well. So well that the film almost feels like a documentary at times. As the monk named Tashi, Tandin Wangchuk has an effortless calm about him. Nothing seems to bother him as he floats through the film. He is easily the standout in the film. Whether he is absorbing a James Bond movie while drinking black water or walking through the hills oddly holding a rifle, you want to watch his every move. It’ll be exciting to see where these new careers will go.
The Monk and The Gun releases in select theaters starting on February 2, 2024. Stay safe and find happiness.
Rated: PG-13 Runtime: 1h 46m Languages: Dzongkha, English Director: Pawo Choyning Dorji Writer: Pawo Choyning Dorji Producers: Stephanie Lai, Jean-Christophe Simon, Hsu Feng Director of Photography: Jigme Tenzing Executive Producer: Lisa Henson
https://youtube.com/watch?v=NF0JChMz8Uc%3Fsi%3DlpJGgPHXT0lmC2jN
The Monk and The Gun is a respectful critique and reluctant embrace of Western ways.
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GVN Rating
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
