Discover the latest cinematic masterpiece from renowned filmmaker Khyentse Norbu: “Pig at the Crossing.” Known for iconic films like “The Cup”—which portrays two young football-crazed Tibetan refugee novice monks in their quest to obtain a television for their remote Himalayan monastery to watch the 1998 FIFA World Cup final—Norbu continues to captivate audiences. He also directed “Travellers,” the first feature film entirely shot in the Kingdom of Bhutan, further showcasing his visionary approach to storytelling.
“Pig at the Crossing” is a collaborative effort between Norbu and a group of talented young Bhutanese filmmakers. This film departs from traditional filmmaking norms and spotlights the fresh talents of emerging voices in cinema, many of whom are taking their first steps in this industry with this project.
Despite facing rejection from thirty revered film festivals, “Pig at the Crossing” has found a way to share its compelling narrative with a global audience through a virtual premiere, by embracing a direct-to-customer model.
Continuing Norbu’s exploration of profound human experiences, ‘Pig at the Crossing’ introduces us to Dolom, a 29-year-old passionate YouTube creator and newly appointed school teacher in Bhutan. His life takes a dramatic turn following a one-night stand with a married woman, Deki, 32, who soon discovers she is pregnant. In a desperate bid to maintain his reputation, Dolom concocts a plan to cover up the affair. However, his plans are abruptly derailed by a motorcycle accident, after which he wakes up in a bizarre and chaotic world.
As the narrative unfolds, Dolom slowly realizes that he is, in fact, dead. Guided by a mysterious figure, he navigates this in-between realm, facing his past decisions and their ripple effects across the lives of others. Through Dolom’s surreal journey, ‘Pig at the Crossing’ invites viewers to ponder the complexities of personal responsibility, cultural identity, and the unseen forces that shape our destinies.
Scheduled for a virtual premiere on May 11, 2024, with five screenings across different time zones, the film’s release strategy underscores the filmmakers’ commitment to authenticity and direct engagement with their audience surpasses geographical and cultural borders.
About Pig at the Crossing (2024)
Duration: 119 mins
Languages: Dzongkha & English
Written & directed by: Khyentse Norbu
Production: Norling Studios, Thimphu, Bhutan
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