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The structure of this documentary about life in Bhutan is decidedly odd and, in some ways, limits its impact. Even so, viewers anxious to get an impression of life in that country today will not be displeased by Agent of Happiness which is extremely well photographed by its two directors, Arun Bhattarai and Dorottya Zurbó. Nevertheless, the approach taken by the filmmakers involves switching from one style to another and from one focus to another and results in a film that never fully comes together.

The film's title refers to its central figure, the 40-year-old but still unmarried Amber Kumar Gurung who devotedly looks after his aged mother (we learn that his siblings have all married). Despite this personal detail the film initially seems to be centred on his work. We learn that he is employed with a colleague, Guna Raj Kuikel, to travel around the country putting official questions to its citizens as part of a survey. In Bhutan great pride is taken in keeping up its reputation as a place of great happiness and these questions are regularly put, 148 of them altogether, in order to calculate an annual figure for the Gross National Happiness Index. Every interviewee is asked to react to each question by giving an evaluation up to ten. One example seen here concerns a village youth and his ratings written up on the screen are for the following: Sense of Anger/Number of Donkeys/Sense of Belonging/Level of Forgiveness/Sense of Satisfaction. The combined figure gives him a nine out of ten.

The most compelling elements of this sociopolitically driven police crime-drama undoubtedly lie within a closer investigation of the film's underbellyWhile it doesn't delve as deeply into its main character as one might have hoped, it certainly paints an effective portrait of a strong woman undertaking an arduous task in a tumultuous landscape.

The narrative's conscious lack of electricity can cause the picture to feel like an underpowered but well-intentioned social commentary. Yet the set pieces are handled with taut efficiency, the suspense emanating from the naturalism of the execution....

Jhola is not just a story of personal tragedy but also a critique of societal norms that prioritize tradition over human dignity. It highlights the struggles of women who are victimized by such practices. By drawing attention to Sati pratha, the movie encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of challenging oppressive systems. Jhola is not just a story of personal tragedy but also a critique of societal norms that prioritize tradition over human dignity. It highlights the struggles of women who are victimized by such practices. By drawing attention to Sati pratha, the movie encourages viewers to reflect on the importance of challenging oppressive systems.

Conclusion

Jhola is a powerful and thought-provoking film that shines a spotlight on a dark chapter of Nepalese history. It serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to action for societal change. With its emotional storytelling, strong performances, and cultural significance, Jhola is a must-watch for anyone interested in Nepalese cinema and social issues.