𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐉𝐢𝐠𝐦𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐧𝐠

Dive into an exhilarating journey through the vibrant world of film with Jigme Ring, a versatile talent celebrated for his skills as an actor, director, and filmmaker. While his adventure began humbly as an assistant director on the set of “Echung Lhamo,” his passion for acting was ignited long ago, rooted in childhood dreams. Amidst his studies in business, Jigme’s path unexpectedly veered towards the dazzling realm of the film industry, propelling him to chase his aspirations amidst the dynamic scene of India. Join us as we unravel the captivating story of his evolution and uncover the intricate fabric of the Bhutanese film industry.

Q: How did your journey into acting kick off?
A: My journey into acting traces back to my early passion, but my debut wasn’t in front of the camera; I started as an assistant director. Picture this: I’m pursuing a Bachelor’s in Commerce in Pune, India, when a friend, Dr. Tsencho, lures me to Mumbai with promises of acting and direction training. But, surprise! The course was about movie direction and editing. Despite the curveball, two friends convinced me to stay, pointing out the scarcity of behind-the-scenes talent. So, I completed the course, returned to Bhutan, and worked as an assistant director on ‘Echung Lhamo,’ under Ata Pelden and produced by Pema Jigme. Later, back to Mumbai for acting training.

Q: With your varied roles, how do you tackle them?
A: Before cameras roll, scripts detail characters and appearances, setting the stage for performance. Without clear character descriptions, my default self might seep through. Detailed roles make my job smoother, but shallow scripts make emoting a challenge. Deep character dives help actors grasp motivations and behaviors, enabling authentic portrayals and enhancing the final product. Writers shape characters significantly, impacting how actors bring them to life. A well-crafted script lets actors sink their teeth into roles, resulting in more compelling performances.

Q: Which role tested your limits the most, and did you find satisfaction in it later?
A: Portraying a disabled character posed significant challenges due to my lack of firsthand experience. Extensive research became my compass, scouring platforms for insights into their daily lives. It demanded thorough preparation and a genuine understanding of their world. Despite initial doubts, the audience’s positive response validated my efforts, bringing immense satisfaction.

Q: How do Bhutanese and Indian films differ, and what does the Bhutanese industry need to thrive?
A: Acting-wise, not much separates them; it’s the budget that sets them apart. Bhutan’s smaller population translates to a limited market and fewer resources. This means less intensive training and equipment. Despite this, Bhutanese films are gaining international acclaim, hinting at a bright future. With greater exposure and support, Bhutanese cinema can flourish, overcoming initial hurdles and carving its place on the global stage.

Q: After years in the industry, what wisdom have you gained?
A: Reflecting on my journey, preserving our filmmaking legacy emerges as a crucial lesson. Documenting the process ensures future generations grasp our cinematic evolution. By safeguarding these details, we bridge the past to the present, enriching our understanding of Bhutanese cinema’s journey. Through intentional preservation efforts, we honor our heritage and provide invaluable resources for future storytellers.

Q: Is breaking into Bhutanese cinema easy, and can it be a lifelong career?
A: Getting into Bhutanese cinema may be easier due to its scale, but sustaining a lifelong career solely in the industry is challenging. Unlike Bollywood, a side hustle is essential for financial stability. The smaller industry size demands diversifying income streams for long-term sustainability. While entry might be accessible, a lasting career requires strategic planning and supplementary ventures beyond acting.

Q: What’s your proudest accomplishment from your years in the industry?
A: Fulfilling my dream of becoming an actor stands as my greatest achievement. Venturing into directing was an unexpected yet rewarding twist. Each milestone marks a significant step, affirming dedication to my craft. Despite initial doubts, embracing directing expanded my horizons and enriched my artistic journey. These achievements symbolize perseverance and the willingness to embrace unexpected paths in pursuit of creative fulfillment, inspiring continued growth in the entertainment world.

Message:

Youths today exhibit remarkable talent across platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook, enabling them to earn through their abilities. These platforms democratize the entertainment industry, allowing direct connections with global audiences and bypassing traditional gatekeepers. From music and dance to comedy and information, diverse forms of expression flourish. Many leverage these platforms not only to showcase talents but also to build sustainable careers. Collaborative communities foster creativity and mutual support, enhancing the environment for growth. In essence, digital platforms redefine how youths engage with their talents, offering unparalleled opportunities for self-expression, development, and financial independence in a rapidly evolving landscape.