Synopsis

Consumed by guilt after abandoning her newborn, Dema retreats into the forest, where isolation mirrors her emotional torment. Once innocent and full of life, she is now a shell of herself, haunted by regret. Her community does not simply reject her -they defame her, casting her as a disgrace without understanding her pain. Misjudged and condemned, Dema bears the weight of their harsh judgment in silence. As the film ends, it does not offer resolution but invites the audience to reflect deeply on how society responds to such situations, prompting questions about compassion, blame, and the hidden struggles behind desperate choices.

Director's Statement

In a land steeped in Buddhist traditions, a haunting paradox emerges: the grim realities of infanticide and baby dumping cast shadows on the promise of compassion and care. The Debt Call seeks to illuminate this urgent issue through a deeply introspective lens, inviting viewers to confront the complexities of human experience and the moral dilemmas that ripple through our society. The film's title resonates as a poignant metaphor—the baby's cry for help transforms into a "debt call," echoing the burdens borne by both mother and child, a cry that reverberates through time and conscience.

Our narrative unfolds in the wake of recent tragedies, stark reminders of a societal crisis often shrouded in silence. A baby cast from a window, the horrific fate of a young girl these heart-wrenching events beckon us to listen, to reflect, and to act. Each unreported case signifies not just a statistic but a silent scream for understanding. Here, we harness the power of audiovisual storytelling, a medium that transcends barriers and fosters empathy, to unravel these untold stories.

The Debt Call defies the conventions of Bhutanese cinema, emerging as a "Tragic Adventure." It pivots on the profound internal landscape of our protagonist, Dem —a tenth standard student whose vibrant optimism is tested by the weight of guilt and societal expectation. Her journey becomes a tapestry woven with the threads of karma, redemption, and the haunting spectre of choice. The film embraces a minimalist aesthetic, with the forest serving as a living backdrop, a co-actor that mirrors Dema’s emotional turmoil and growth.

Through a series of symbolistic frames, each scene invites contemplation—every rustle of leaves, every shadow cast, becomes an extension of Dema’s inner world. The act of breaking the fourth wall serves not just as a narrative device but as a call to engage directly with the audience, challenging them to reflect on their moral compasses.

Why the debt call is different.

The Debt Call is the result of a dynamic collaboration between emerging talent and seasoned experience. The majority of the team is composed of passionate young creatives who bring fresh perspectives, bold ideas, and an eagerness to push creative boundaries. Their youthful energy and commitment to authentic storytelling have played a crucial role in shaping the film’s tone and style. Adding to this unique mix is a first-time filmmaker, whose involvement has brought an honest, unfiltered lens to the project. Despite being new to the medium, their contributions have been both meaningful and impactful, offering a rawness and sincerity that complement the film’s narrative.

Guiding this young team is the film’s director, Pelden Dorji—an award-winning senior filmmaker whose body of work has been celebrated both locally and internationally. His deep understanding of the craft, combined with his calm and collaborative approach, created a nurturing space where young team members could learn, grow, and contribute with confidence. Pelden Dorji’s leadership not only anchored the project with clarity and vision but also allowed the next generation of storytellers to flourish. The Debt Call stands as a testament to the power of mentorship, collaboration, and the beautiful tension between experience and new voices in cinema.