Aashish Bhattarai (Published on The Kathmandu Post Daily)
Film Director Phulman Bal delivering a speech about his short film ‘Cell Phone’ at Martin Chautari, Kathmandu.
KATHMANDU, SEP 29 –
How important is it for one to have a cell phone in today’s techno-world? The lead in Phulman Bal’s short film Cell Phone is so strongly driven by the notion that cell phones are indispensable that he trades his family inheritance, a dhyangro, to buy one.
Based on the Tamang community, Bal’s film explores the impact of modernisation—geared mostly by advancements in technology—on the culture and tradition of the numerous indigenous communities that populate the country. The film, in particular, highlights the inherent passive nature of a third-world country, where the entire population is made up of ‘technology-receivers’.
Cell Phone is set in rural Nepal, where Chhoiku, the son of a witchdoctor, is driven into bouts of envy when he sees his cousin, Palmo, talk to a man boasting about how he has two cell phones. This triggers in him a deep desire to become the proud owner of a cell phone, come what may. During dinner one night, he asks his Apa for two thousand rupees, but is rejected right away.
This, however, does nothing to kill his desire, which attains unprecedented heights when he comes across an antique dealer during a ritual ceremony. It is here that he makes up his mind to steal his father’s dhyangro to sell to the dealer. He then proceeds to buy two cell phones—one for himself and the other for Palmo—with that money. When he finds out, Chhoiku’s father, the witchdoctor, falls sick. Distressed, he condemns himself for his failure to pass on to his son the traditional skills of healing he received from his father.
Concluding the story at this point, director Bal leaves his audience to mull over the extent to which modern equipments have overridden long-standing traditions. While technology continues to enhance life in different ways, films like Cell Phone compel reflection on their implications on society and our values.
Shot at Devichaur VDC of Lalitpur district, Cell Phone combines works of amateur as well as professional actors. It recently received an Encouragement Award from the Indigenous Films Archive. Phulman Bal directed the film while Anil Khadka worked as casting director. The film was screened at Martin Chautari on September 27
Pls read news on Original link: http://www.ekantipur.com/the-kathmandu-post/2012/09/29/related_articles/the-wild-cell-phone-chase/240222.html
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