URGENT UPDATE: Bhutan has officially selected “I, The Song,” directed by Dechen Roder, as its entry for the 98th Academy Awards in the international feature film category. This announcement marks a pivotal moment for Bhutan’s burgeoning cinema, following the film’s sweeping success at the National Film Awards.
“I, The Song” follows a school teacher on a quest in southern Bhutan to locate her doppelganger, intertwining her journey with themes of identity and cultural heritage. The film’s gripping narrative and stunning visuals have already garnered critical acclaim, winning numerous awards, including Best Film and Best Director at the National Film Awards.
The film premiered at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival, where Roder was honored with the Best Director award. It also had its Asian premiere at the International Film Festival of India in Goa. The cast features talents such as Tandin Bidha, Jimmie Wangyal Tshering, and Sonam Lhamo.
This selection represents Bhutan’s fourth submission to the Academy since it began participating in 1999. Previous entries include “The Cup” and the Oscar-nominated “Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom.” The selection committee, organized by the Bhutan Information and Communications Media Authority (BICMA), has only recently established formal procedures for submissions, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s film industry.
“We’re super thrilled to receive this recognition from our committee,” Roder stated. “Even though our Oscars journey likely peaks here due to our limited budget for campaigns, we are filled with honor and excitement.”
“I, The Song” has received several international grants, supporting its production by Roder’s Dakinny Productions in collaboration with Girelle Production from France, alongside co-producers from countries including Norway and Taiwan.
Award-winning filmmaker and Academy member Arun Bhattarai, part of the selection committee, praised the film’s unique storytelling. “Dechen has a gift for blending the real and the mysterious, creating a narrative that feels authentically Bhutanese,” he said.
The film also aims to highlight the current state of society through its narrative. Committee member Thaye Lam Tshering remarked, “This film showcases the impact of digital realities on our lives while celebrating Bhutan’s vibrant culture.”
Producer Johann Chapelan emphasized the film’s timely message about the erosion of women’s rights and human freedoms worldwide. “This film is a reminder of cinema’s power to affirm human dignity,” he noted.
Roder expressed hope that this recognition might inspire other Bhutanese filmmakers, aiming to create greater visibility for Bhutanese art on the global stage. “I hope this recognition gives our own filmmakers a small push of encouragement and visibility,” she said.
The international feature shortlist for the Oscars will be announced on December 16, 2023, with the final five nominees revealed on January 22, 2024. As Bhutan takes this monumental step, the world watches with anticipation.
Stay tuned for updates as “I, The Song” embarks on its Oscar journey!
