:: Windhorse

A unique insight into a Tibetan family and their struggle to survive and is the first feature film to be shot in the Tibetan language. In this film we see three children Dolkar, her brother Dorjee and their cousin Pema playing together in their village. The Chinese militia kills their grandfather and their lives change. The abusive Chinese government has killed many peace-loving Tibetans. We then see them as adults and each one has followed a different path. Dolkar is determined to make it in the Chinese controlled music industry while her brother is bitter toward his sister’s betrayal and drinks and smokes his way to oblivion.

The film shows life in the capital city of Tibet, Lhasa. A real urban portrayal of hardships facing young Tibetans rather than the ideal portrayal of village life often portrayed in the media. Their cousin Pema has become a Buddist nun. She teaches herself English so that she can get a message to tourists so that the Western world will be aware of the atrocities Tibet is experiencing. One day while walking in a public square Pema and her friend shout out “Free Tibet”. She is arrested and thrown into jail. She is later returned to her family home beaten and barely alive. The three of them are united again.
The incredible thing about this film is that it was shot entirely on location in Tibet and Nepal, often in secret without the Chinese government's approval. The story is based on true events. In fact Dadon the actress who plays the singer Dokar had a very similar story. She became a popular singing star in the 80s but when many of her friends were being arrested in the early 90's she fled Tibet by walking across the Himalayan mountains just like her character. In many cases the identities of the actors remain anonymous for their own protection and their families who are still living in Tibet. The Chinese government was and still is desperate to get this film banned. People should see this film and maybe the world will take notice of what is happening over there. The killing and oppression may then stop.