Bhutan

Land of the Thunder Dragon

Author: Helmut Mülfarth

Length: 50'

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Known to the natives as Druk Yul, Bhutan with its isolation, spectacular mountains, varied flora and fauna, ancient Buddhist monasteries, vibrant culture and mystic aura is regarded by many as one of the last hidden paradises on earth. As one of the first film teams, which was allowed to film the people of Bhutan and through the eyes of the residents this beautiful landscape, the fascinating traditions in the middle of this hidden kingdom are portrayed. Never before the influence of western lifestyle in Bhutan was presented to a camera team. His Majesty Jigme Wangchuk dislikes the foreign influence and gave out the order to the people to wear traditional clothes until 9 p.m. Nevertheless, the documentary shows the traces of the immigrants and the growing influence of western lifestyle. The last bow-makers, the biggest festivals at the beginning of the year with dancing monks in the monastery of Paro, known as the central monastery of Bertolucci’s film “Little Buddha”, and golf with the royal family in the capital city - the highest golfing green on earth – shade a different light on Bhutan.

year of production: 2004