Two Bhutanese films are set to compete at the Osaka Asian Film Festival in Japan, a key event in Asia’s cinema calendar. “I, the Song” and “Zampa” will represent Bhutan, marking another key milestone for the country’s growing film industry.
“I, the Song” will compete for the Best Picture and Most Promising Talent Awards.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Dechen Roder, the movie follows a woman who searches for her lookalike to prove her innocence in a viral video scandal. Her journey from Thimphu to Gelephu leads her to uncover deeper truths about herself and the reality surrounding the events.
The film has been screened at more than 12 international film festivals, including the Taipei Film Festival, New York Asian Film Festival, and New Horizons International Film Festival.
It also won the Best Director Award at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
Domestically, it has dominated local awards, sweeping eight categories at the national film festival this year.
Director Dechen Roder said, “We are very excited about Osaka, of course, as it is one of the biggest film festivals in Japan, or even Asia. And we are also in competition, so that makes it more exciting”.
Meanwhile, Zampa, a short film by Chand RC, will be making its premiere at the international film festival.
It tells the story of a man on the brink of ending his life, whose plan is unexpectedly disrupted by a stray horse and a passerby. This unexpected meeting creates a delicate connection that brings hope, leading to a life-changing twist.
The lead actors expressed their excitement.
“It’s a different experience for a Bhutanese actor like me who has been mostly engaged in local films. It’s a bridge for Bhutanese actors here to go internationally,” said Kuenzang Norbu, Actor, Zampa.
“I am very excited to share it with an international audience. The future is bright, and I hope to see young filmmakers and actors from Bhutan taking their stories to the global stage,” said Threwang Sonam Wangchuk, Actor, Zampa.
The 21st Osaka Asian Film Festival 2025 will be held from the 29th of this month till the 7th of next month.
The Osaka Asian Film Festival 2025 is an annual event celebrating and showcasing outstanding films from across Asia. It aims to promote cultural exchange and support Asian filmmakers.
Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
