‘Bhuthan’ makes global debut on Amazon Prime

KATHMANDU: The Nepali feature film Bhuthan has made its international debut on the globally renowned OTT platform Amazon Prime.

According to producer Aviral Thapa, the film has been officially released under its English title, The World’s Happiest Man, in North America since Jan 9.

Producer Rajendra Thakurathi added that efforts are underway to make the film accessible on other platforms worldwide in the near future.

Originally released in Nepal last Baisakh, Bhutan tells the story of a Bhutanese refugee who moves to the United States.

The film follows an elderly man’s journey as he attempts to return to Bhuthan in the later years of his life, exploring the struggles of living in a foreign land.

While material comforts may be available abroad, the film poignantly depicts the cultural, religious, and emotional challenges faced by those separated from their homeland.

The film stars Harivansh Acharya in the lead role, alongside Dayahang Rai, Anuradha Majumdar, Puja Chand-Lama, Richa Ghimire, Joe Pandey, Aditi Pyakurel, Tom Crane, and Bimal Subedi.

Hollywood actor Bruce Dern also features in a special role. Notably, Bhuthan is the first Nepali film made in collaboration with Hollywood technicians under the SAG-AFTRA framework.

Directed by Binod Paudel, the film is produced by Aviral Thapa, Sushank Mainali, Rajendra Thakurathi, Amitabh Joshi, and Kirtana Banskota.

Cinematography is by Susan Prajapati, with executive producers Bikash Bhito Adhikari, Kaushila Khanal, Ramesh Bhatt, and Apar Shrestha.

Anjay Khadka handled editing, Dikesh Khadgi Shahi managed sound, Samvaran K.C. composed the music, Surya Shahi oversaw casting, Ujjwal Shrestha led publicity design, and Bimal Subedi designed production.

he acclaimed Bollywood art director Anjan Gajurel contributed to the film’s art direction.

The project is a joint production of Thakurathi Bros, Vacant Light, Everest Entertainment, Nepal’s Awaken Production, and the U.S.-based Mad Monkey Films.