Jinpa

In the independent world of international cinema, it's always rewarding to stumble upon a gem that dives deeper beyond mainstream themes. With its robin's egg blue skies that stretch to infinity and copper-colored mountains, the 2018 movie Jinpa placed in the barren landscapes of Kekexili, Tibet, is such a discovery. Directed by the talented dPema Tseden, this film stands as a profound exploration of karma, fate, and spirituality, immersing viewers in a unique combination of ambiguous narrative and elliptical storytelling.

In keeping with the finest spirit of cinema vérité, the part documentary, part fictional quality of Jinpa is heightened by the actors sharing names with their characters. The story pivots around two main characters, both named Jinpa, in a strange coincidence of fate.

The first Jinpa, portrayed by actor Jinpa (known for Kailash), is a rugged, leather-jacketed truck driver. A modern, isolated man who appears to be the epitome of the solitary traveler. The expansive landscapes and lonely stretches of highway in which he operates are an extension of his existential journey. His life revolves around delivering sheep and supplies to scattered locations, his only constant companion being the songs of Tibetan pop star Tsering Bawa playing on his truck's stereo.

The story takes an interesting twist when Jinpa, the truck driver, accidentally runs over a sheep on a quiet, empty highway. The spiritual significance and symbolism of this act is hard to miss, in the context of Tibet's deeply ingrained Buddhist tradition. It is not long after this incident that he picks up a solitary hitchhiker, revealing the second Jinpa played by Genden Phuntsok.

This second Jinpa is a stark contrast to the truck-driving Jinpa. A quiet man in traditional Tibetan attire, carrying a small blade and nursing a mindful grudge. He is on a quest of revenge, a personal mission that's as bleak and relentless as the surrounding landscape, seeking vengeance for his father's death, hinting at a deeper theme of cyclic violence and Karma. The intriguing storyline, strong performances, and crisp cinematography unfold an austere beauty, drawing viewers into an intimate exploration of the personal quests of the lonely characters.

The relationship between the two Jinpas begins awkwardly. Their initial communication offers a blend of slight humor, especially when they are interacting over the roaring noise of the truck. Still, gradually, subtle events lead to an unexpected bond and shared destiny between them.

Sonam Wangmo, as a mysterious woman who runs a roadside eatery, adds another layer to the narrative. Although her appearance is very brief, her powerfully enigmatic presence deeply affects the course of karma and destiny for these two men.

Whats striking about Jinpa is the compelling atmosphere it creates. The story unfolds in a distant, culturally rich setting but touches on universal themes of revenge, remorse, and reconciliation that resonate with viewers worldwide. The director’s treatment of spirituality and karma offers food for thought and leaves a lasting resonance.

Kudos to cinematographer Lu Songye for capturing the stark beauty and harsh realities of Tibet in seemingly infinite wide-angle shots. Adding another dimension to the narrative, the beautiful barren landscapes, captured in monochrome hues of black, white, and varying shades of grey, serve as a poetic backdrop to the introspective journey of its characters.

Jinpa avoids conventional plot formats, typical emotional narratives, or exoticizing the Tibetan landscape and sticks to its path of portraying human sensibilities and spiritual dilemmas embedded in everyday encounters. The movie’s slow tension and chilly elegance do not detract from its concentric narrative. It is a powerful exploration of destiny and karma, a meditative engagement that is utterly absorbing.

However, the film doesn’t end with an easy resolution. Instead of explicating its layers, the more Jinpa yields, the more elusive it becomes. As viewers, we become silent observers, navigating the labyrinth of fate and spirituality where nothing is quite as it seems. Through its beautiful narrative arcs and thoughtful structure, Jinpa offers an enriching cinematographic experience that leaves viewers with lingering thoughts. It is perfect for those who appreciate introspective films with a profound narrative and understated beauty.