Ap Bokto
Ap Bokto is a 2014 Bhutanese 3D computer-animated film produced and directed by Karma Dhendup under Athang Animation Studio.
| Ap Bokto | |
|---|---|
 Theatrical poster | |
| Directed by | Karma Dhendup |
| Produced by | Karma Dhendup |
Production company | Athang Animation Studio |
Release date |
|
Running time | 53 minutes |
| Country | Bhutan |
| Language | Dzongkha |
The film was the first Bhutanese 3D animation film to be made and the first animated film to be based from a Bhutanese folk tale. The story of the film revolves around Ap Bokto who encounters and outwits several wild animals whose goal is to make him as their meal.[1]
Production
Production for the film took more than 2 years with a budget of Nu. 4.5 million. The production team was composed of 30 people. Athang Animation Studio's proprietor, Karma Dhendup directed and produced the film.[2] The film's duration is 53 minutes.[1]
Cast
Ap Bokto
- (Voiced by:Phurba Thinley)
- the main protagonist of the story.
Release
The film was first released in Thimphu in September 2014. The film was scheduled to be screened in other districts in the country but the screening were halted following reports of unauthorized leakage of the film.[2]
Reception
Although the film was aimed at targeting kids above five years of age, it overwhelmingly poured in viewers as young as one-and-a-half year old babies. Internet traffic Analytics showed there were more than five thousand viewers of Ap Bokto everyday on YouTube and traffic showed 30% of the viewers were from outside Bhutan and almost every country on earth have viewed this channel.
Famous YouTuberPewDiePie has reviewed Ap Bokto's trailer and danced it's song.
The film was positively received by the Bhutanese audience especially by children. By around March 2015, the film, including the relevant comics, has made money amounting to around 40 percent of the Nu. 4.5 million budget. Karma Dhendup has received invitations from European film festivals due to the film's success.[2]
Synopsis
Ap Bokto sequel are yet to be released and synopsis differs but all in line of its original shapes.
Leakage
Dhendup's animation studio was approached by a woman who found a flash drive from a customer containing the film for theatrical release on February 6, 2015. Dhendup believes that the film could have been leaked as early as the end of January 2015. Dhendup said that he heard copies of the film reached India.[2] [3]
Purpose and objective making Ap Bokto
Besides entertainment, Athang aims to instill values to children as it lies at the heart of our collective responsibility as parents, guardians, and mentors. Values are the guiding principles that shape a child's character, decisions, and, ultimately, their future. They are the moral compass that guides them through life's journey.
As we live in a complex and rapidly changing world it becomes crucial to equip our children with values that will not only help them navigate the challenges they encounter but also empower them to become responsible, compassionate, and contributing members of society.
Ap Bokto's film are made to help children develop character with honesty, integrity, and empathy. Develop Moral Compass: helping children distinguish between right and wrong, enabling them to make ethical decisions, even when faced with challenging situations. Respect for Others: Develop Self-Esteem and Confidence and finally Long-Term Happiness: Studies show that individuals who prioritize values like gratitude, kindness, and love tend to lead happier and more fulfilling lives.
The producer take this seriously, nurturing our children not just with knowledge but with the values that will truly empower them to make the world a better place.
Also it aims in screening lost stories of the past as in most countries oral tradition (folktales) has diminished due to rapid socio-economic development. As storytelling is less being practiced in modern world, there is a danger of some beautiful village stories are to be lost forever. It is important that the stories to be recorded so that these invisible assets are kept and passed on the younger generations.
References
- Thinley Zangmo (9 October 2014). "A local cartoon character for children". Kuensel. Retrieved 24 August 2015.
- Kinga Dema (6 March 2015). "Animated film producer files piracy police report". Kuensel. Retrieved 24 August 2015.
- Kinga Dema (16 April 2015). "Search narrows down to four suspects". Kuensel. Retrieved 24 August 2015.