The Monk and the Gun

An American man travels to Bhutan in search of a valuable antique rifle. While there, he encounters a young monk wandering through the mountains who has been tasked by his teacher to rectify a situation. The story is set during a period of modernization in the country, as the government introduces democracy and organizes trial elections to teach citizens how to vote. Amidst this political shift, a monk plans a mysterious ceremony to coincide with the election day.

Written and directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji, this comedy-drama is the second film in the director's chronological filmography, following Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom. The cast features Tandin Wangchuk, Tandin Sonam, Deki Lhamo, Pema Zangmo Sherpa, Harry Einhorn, and Kelsang Choejay. A co-production between Bhutan, the United States, Taiwan, and France, the movie earned 2 million USD at the worldwide box office.

The film has been received positively by both viewers and professionals. It holds a rating of 7.1/10 on IMDb based on 4,400 votes and 7.2/10 on TMDB from 125 votes. Film critics gave the movie a higher score of 8/10 based on 48 reviews.