And He Forgot All about America

Overview of the Film

• Title: Travellers and Magicians

  • Directed by Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Norbu (1961-present)

  • Released in 2003

  • Notable for its representation of Tibetan Buddhism and its unique storytelling approach.

Title Significance

• English Title: "Travellers and Magicians"

  • Emphasizes themes of movement, transience, and illusion.

• Dzongkha Title: "Once (upon a time) hallucinating on a sip of wine"

  • Reflects the distortion caused by intoxication and self-centered thoughts.

Main Characters

• Dondup: Civil servant in Bhutan, discontent with his life.

• Tashi: One of the parallel characters who shares similar sentiments.

• Tshewang Dondup: Actor portraying Dondup.

• Sonam Kunga: Actor portraying a monk who offers wisdom.

Plot Summary

• Initial Setting: Dondup awaits a letter from a friend in America.

• Conflict: His impatience and desire to leave Bhutan lead to a series of events where he struggles to secure time off from work to pursue his dreams.

  • Misses the bus to the capital city, Thimphu.

• Key Encounter: An old farmer and a monk provide contrasting perspectives on his aspirations.

  • The monk advises caution with dreams, warning of the harsh realities that may follow.

Major Themes

1. Buddhist-Philosophical

   • Challenges perceptions of reality vs. dreams and fiction.

2. Moral-Didactic

   • Discusses dangers of unchecked desires and mental fabrications.

3. Social Commentary

   • Critiques the superficiality of modern life and the repetition of traditional values.

Character Development

• Dondup's Journey: A movement from self-absorption to self-reflection leading to personal growth.

  • Gains newfound appreciation for his culture.

  • Realizes the constructed nature of his desires through engaging dialogues with the monk.

Symbolism of the Arrow

• Opening Scene: A bowman (the director) shoots an arrow at the audience.

  • Represents the filmmaker's intention to pierce illusions.

• Cultural Significance: Archery is Bhutan's national sport; symbolizes clarity and guidance in Buddhist traditions.

• Arrows in Shamanism: Used for clearing paths and divination in various cultures.

Dondup's Inner Conflict

• Contrast of Traditions

  • Dondup's struggle between adherence to traditional values vs. modern temptations (shown through items in his room).

• Western Influences: Materials and cultural symbols reflecting a superficial and consumerist lifestyle.

  • Example: Clothing brands and rock music contrasting with the national dress (gho).

Conclusion of the Film

• Climactic Moment: Increased self-awareness leads to laughter rather than despair.

  • The character reflects on his dreams of America but finds joy in self-realization.

• Monk's Storytelling: Functions as a narrative device enabling reflection on dreamlands and aspirations.