Dechen Zangmo

In the remote Bhutan, an undercover detective investigates the case of a missing Buddhist nun and falls into a risky alliance with his only suspect, an alluring young woman known as the village "demoness".

The traditional ‘3 Year 3 Month Retreat’ or ‘Lo Sum Choe Sum’ is practiced by Buddhist monks, nuns and other devout practitioners. 3 years, 3 months, and 3 days is calculated as the time needed to achieve a higher state of clarity and motivation. By cutting oneself off from the world, and delving into the inner mind, the retreat is supposed to transform the practitioner. Can Lhamo, a young, wounded girl facing the harsh gaze of the world, find her own form of retreat and redemption? Lo Sum Choe Sum was Bhutan’s first entry into the Berlinale Shorts Competition. It was made in 2015 by filmmaker Dechen Roder, who later produced and wrote and directed the well-acclaimed Honeygiver Among the Dogs.

“Birds in Cages" is a poignant tale centered around Dechen and Pema, two close friends who endure numerous hardships. Pema's mother's early death led her to be raised by her father, who later marries her off to an elderly man due to financial struggles. Despite her efforts, her life spirals into prostitution. Dechen, also trapped in an unhappy marriage, longs for her childhood friend Jamyang. Pema's abusive husband causes her tragic death during her pregnancy. Distraught, Dechen seeks justice for her friend and transforms her life, standing against her oppressive father and embracing a new path with Jamyang. The story culminates in a hopeful journey where Dechen, Jamyang, her mother, and daughter embark on a honeymoon trip, symbolizing newfound freedom and happiness.