The Netherlands 2012, 55/78 min, HDA Moondocs B.V Production
by Simonka de Jong
The Only Son
The challenge of keeping ancient Tibetan culture alive as the Dolpo region at the Nepal border becomes less isolated. Pema’s parents’ expect him to return home when he completes his education, and marry a local woman to manage the family’s land together. As the only son, this is Pema's role in their traditional culture. The young man is torn between his duty and his desire to live the modern life he learned abroad and now prefers.The film is primarily shot in Karang, a village at 13,000 feet in Upper Dolpo, one of the most remote
areas of Nepal.
Back in 2012, the family said, “It was not easy to put our personal lives in the public, but we hope our stories will inspire and educate others about the unique Dolpo culture and spread awareness, the need for medical and educational resources in Dolpo, Nepal. It is very difficult to survive here without proper health care. We lost five of our siblings and our sister, Chunzombuty lost three children. We are extremely grateful our parents made a month-long trek from Dolpo to Kathmandu multiple times to save our lives from life-threatening health conditions. Without our parents’ bravery, most of us would not be alive today. We currently support and collaborate with several organizations that support people in Nepal especially in Dolpo with education and medical care. And we will continue to advocate health and educational needs for remote people. Thank you First Hand Films for helping us tell our stories!“
IDFA (Dutch Competition), Documentary Edge New Zealand, Hot Docs (World Showcase), Sguardi Altrove Milan (Le Donne Raccontanto Award)