Watch Travellers and Magicians

"Travellers and Magicians" is a thought-provoking tale of self-discovery and the age-old philosophical adage of 'the grass is always greener on the other side'. The movie is a heartwarming piece of art that takes place in Bhutan, a remote and yet picturesque country located in the eastern Himalayas. The film takes the viewer on a surreal journey of culture, traditions, and the stark contrast between urban and rural ways of life.

The story of "Travellers and Magicians" is set in motion when Dondup, a young and ambitious government official, decides to leave his small Bhutanese village for the capital, hoping to find a better life there. Dondup is portrayed as a persistent and aspiring man, who believes that going to the U.S. or a big city is the key to success; he, however, faces an obstacle when he misses his bus to the capital, which forces him to hitchhike.

On his unexpected journey, Dondup meets a diverse group of people, including an old apple trader, a monk, a musician, and a few fellow hitchhikers. Each person has a story to tell and aspects of life to share with Dondup – all transforming his perspective on life. One such person, a tobacco-chewing monk, shares a philosophical story of a young farmer named Tashi who is mesmerized by the idea of going to America.

In "Travellers and Magicians," the stories interweave, and Dondup and Tashi's plotlines begin to converge. Tashi is a restless youth who dreams of going to America; however, unlike Dondup, Tashi lives in a remote village – removed from the urban realities of Dondup's life. The story’s second act dismantles the dichotomy between modern and traditional living by blending them seamlessly. The pleasure of the plot is underlined by a musical score that blends the sounds of the East and the West.

Throughout the film, several elements are central to the plot. These include the concept of fate, the gift of storytelling, the humorous portrayal of the bureaucracy in the country, and the exceptional Bhutanese landscape. The characters are brilliantly crafted and authentic, showcasing the unique lifestyle and traditions of the people of Bhutan. The harmonious use of the local language, which is both lyrical and intimate, is perhaps one of the film’s standout features.

As Dondup's and Tashi's paths meet, the story unfolds into an imaginative vision of the classic hero's quest, following their attempts to overcome various obstacles and learn life's most valuable lessons. The film's stunning and well-captured mountain landscape characterizes the quintessence of Bhutan, showcasing the distinct rural life in the most engaging way.

In conclusion, "Travellers and Magicians" is an engrossing and entertaining film that explores universal themes of love, identity, and the complexities of modernization. It is a movie that allows the viewer to reflect on one's own life's journey and how we often take the most incredible things in life for granted. The beauty of Bhutan is impeccably captured, and the splendid performances of the cast make the movie a captivating and spiritual journey that will be sure to leave an enduring impact.

Travellers and Magicians is a 2003 adventure movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 48 minutes.