The Red Phallus

The Red Phallus is an evocative and moving 2018 movie directed by Tashi Gyeltshen that has been made in the Bhutanese film industry. It's a beautifully crafted human drama spotlighting the nuances of typical Bhutanese folk traditions juxtaposed with contemporary society's sensitivities. The heart of the movie revolves around the life instances of a 16-year-old girl named Sangay, impressively portrayed by novice actress Tshering Euden.

The tale begins in a quaint traditional settlement nestled in a serene valley, and the grandeur of the Himalayan landscapes is brought to life with awe-inspiring cinematography, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative. Living with her artisan father (Dorji Gyeltshen) who is singularly skilled at carving 'phalluses,' Sangay is caught in the stern moral paradox of tradition and modernity. The movie portrays an intriguing cultural note of Bhutan– wooden phalluses painted in bright colors which, according to local belief, represent a divine symbol to ward off evil and promote fertility.

Sangay's father, Dorji Gyeltshen, has made a livelihood out of crafting these wooden symbols. However, this has made Sangay a subject of mockery among her peers due to the peculiarity of her father's craft. Such circumstance brings to the surface the clash of old and new values, and the journey of a young girl grappling to embrace her heritage while navigating through her adolescence.

Throughout the movie, Sangay is seen juggling between the ancient beliefs, swaying in the cultural dilemma, and the desire for a progressive life in the city. The director has intricately woven these crisp threads to depict her journey from being a scorned village girl to becoming a strong, independent woman.

In striking contrast to her life, Sangay falls in love with an errant electrician named Karma, portrayed by Singye. This love interest initiates another subplot that explores themes of romantic love, social class divide, and gender roles in Bhutanese society. Sangay's relationship with Karma is as complicated as her life, having to deal with societal norms, expectations, and stigma, which further adds to her internal strife.

The Red Phallus commands attention with its measured pacing, soulful Bhutanese folk melodies, and its art of displaying complex emotions with minimal frames. The director, Tashi Gyeltshen, deserves praise for his masterful storytelling that unravels the inaccessible, enchanting cultural landscape of Bhutan with a blend of realism and sensitivity.

For a film majorly dominated by amateur actors, the performances in The Red Phallus are quite riveting. Tshering Euden, with her striking screen presence, dominates the movie with her interpretation of the resolute, evolving protagonist, Sangay. Her performance is well-complimented by the naturally profound character portrayals by Dorji Gyeltshen and Singye.

Collectively, the film delicately handles many layers: social, cultural, generational, and gender issues, which are predominant in the Bhutanese society. It also sparks a dialogue between traditions and modernity, rural and urban worlds, and freedom and the desire to conform. The red phallus isn't used as a tool for laughter or ridicule in the movie but acts as a metaphorical symbol addressing the broader aspects of cultural identity, heritage, masculinity, and social norms.

In conclusion, The Red Phallus is more than just a film; it's a visual commentary, an unfazed, unflinching look into the heart of Bhutan that brings the audience face-to-face with the otherwise unfamiliar elements of its culture. It is filled with varied emotions packed within scenic compositions and storytelling that takes you on an intimate journey into the soul of Bhutan. The Red Phallus remains with audiences long after it has ended, thereby making it a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic piece.