Highway to Dhampus

I really enjoyed this small, quiet film about life in rural Nepal. It's beautifully shot and has a great Nepali cast. It's very much a character study with Nepal itself being one of the biggest characters. The film does a great job of giving you more than a passing tourist's view of Nepal, but you don't need a deep understanding of Hindu culture to appreciate it. I liked that it asked hard questions about the real value of charity and service work, hard questions the film didn't offer an easy answer for, and it wasn't just a post-colonial "white guilt" film.

A few of the characters start off as thin caricatures, but as the film progresses, most of these characters grow along with the film. I was especially drawn to Ajit, the Nepali pilot who connects all these disparate characters, but also old Nepal and modern Nepal. The film really wants to make a stark contrast between Elizabeth, the spoiled heiress doing obligatory charity work, and Laxmi, the simple villager who runs the local orphanage, but I think the best contrast comes in the form of Ajit's personal struggle as he transitions from being a proud pilot to much more humble circumstances.

Love the cinematography, love the music, love the story, and the beautiful Nepali people! What a beautifully shot film that took me on a journey of love, charity, change, and kindness! If you like independent films, watch this one! I've already watched it 5 times. :) I still can't get over the cinematography!

"**Highway to Dhampus**" is a 2014 independent drama film directed by Rick McFarland. Set in the picturesque landscapes of Nepal, the movie explores themes of cultural clash, personal transformation, and the impact of Western influence on traditional societies. The story revolves around an American woman, Elizabeth, who travels to Nepal to volunteer at an orphanage, and her interactions with the locals, particularly a young Nepalese man named Raj.

### Key Themes: 1. **Cultural Clash**: The film delves into the tensions and misunderstandings that arise when Western ideals meet traditional Nepalese values. Elizabeth's well-meaning but often misguided attempts to help highlight the complexities of cross-cultural interactions.

2. **Personal Transformation**: Both Elizabeth and Raj undergo significant personal growth throughout the film. Elizabeth learns to see beyond her own preconceptions, while Raj grapples with his aspirations and the realities of his environment.

3. **Impact of Tourism and Western Influence**: The movie subtly critiques the effects of tourism and Western intervention in Nepal, questioning whether these influences are always beneficial.

### Cinematography and Direction:

• The film is visually stunning, capturing the breathtaking beauty of Nepal's landscapes. The cinematography effectively contrasts the serene natural environment with the turmoil of the characters' lives.

• Rick McFarland's direction is thoughtful and nuanced, allowing the story to unfold at a measured pace that reflects the contemplative nature of the narrative.

### Performances:

• The cast, a mix of professional actors and local non-actors, delivers authentic and heartfelt performances. Rachel Hurd-Wood, who plays Elizabeth, brings depth and vulnerability to her role.

• Rajesh Hamal, a veteran Nepalese actor, provides a strong supporting performance, adding gravitas to the film.

### Critical Reception:

• "Highway to Dhampus" received mixed reviews. Critics praised its visual beauty and the earnestness of its message but noted that the film sometimes struggled with pacing and narrative clarity.

• The film was appreciated for its attempt to address complex issues and for its authentic portrayal of Nepalese culture and landscapes.

### Conclusion: "Highway to Dhampus" is a visually captivating film that offers a thoughtful exploration of cultural differences and personal growth. While it may have some narrative shortcomings, its heartfelt performances and stunning cinematography make it a worthwhile watch, especially for those interested in stories about cross-cultural experiences and the beauty of Nepal. If you enjoy films that combine scenic beauty with deep, reflective themes, "Highway to Dhampus" is a film to consider.

"Highway to Dhampus" is an inspiring film. "Highway to Dhampus" is a beautifully shot film that truly belongs on the big screen. The cinematography is breath-taking, and it makes you feel as if you are in Nepal watching this story unfold before your very eyes. All of the powerful cast members gave noteworthy spectacular performances, but Nepal itself stole the show with a breathtaking performance. A powerful performance made even more moving with the resent devastation cause by the Nepal earthquakes. This film takes you on a journey of a beautiful country that all should experience. A beautifully written, directed, and shot film crafted together by Rick McFarland.

This is a beautiful film in every sense of the word. Set in breathtaking Nepal, the setting and camera work weave a spell. The landscape becomes a living character in the film and pulls each character in a different direction. The story revolves around a British socialite in need of redemption and purpose in life, an American photographer who has lost his faith in what matters in life, a Nepalese pilot with feet in two worlds, and the director of an isolated Nepalese orphanage who possesses a beautiful heart and quiet spirituality. The Nepalese actors are the standouts, telling the story of their characters and their people with genuine feeling and depth. Highway to Dhampus is a story of love, beauty, transformation and faith in a shared humanity. I laughed, cried, and was moved deeply by this beautiful little film.