Agent of Happiness
Amber is one of the many agents working for the Bhutanese government to measure people’s happiness levels among the remote Himalayan mountains. But will he find his own along the way?
AGENT OF HAPPINESS offers a unique take on the notoriously exoticized Bhutan and its unusual happiness policy. We follow Amber as he investigates various expressions of contentment across different households and lifestyles while navigating his own struggle as a Nepali minority. The holistic philosophy at the heart of the survey he conducts challenges the conventional metrics of fulfillment and success, often provoking some deeper soul-searching. The filmmakers elegantly capture many tender moments between Amber and his interlocutors, as well as some very revealing conversations filled with unflinching honesty and quiet wisdom.
Through its carefully crafted narrative, the film resonates as a heartfelt exploration of happiness in the face of adversity. As Amber grapples with societal disparities and personal roadblocks while searching for love, this story becomes a beautifully realized reminder to count our blessings.
Cast
- Amber Kumar Gurung
- Guna Raj Kuikel
- "It boasts all the hallmarks of a audience-friendly documentary; an intriguing story, a likeable protagonist, stunning cinematography and an accessible tone. Heartfelt...."
- "The quiet, intimate charms of Agent of Happiness pulse from poignant collective consideration, filtered through the personal experience of a professional happiness inspector."
- "Melodic and meaningful. Calming and humanizing...."
- "A complex, observant, and bittersweet look at the nature of fulfilment viewed through the infrequently glimpsed lens of Bhutanese culture."
- "This is a lovely and kind documentary that handles big subjects with an unusual amount of honesty."
- "Agent of Happiness offers an intriguing look at the process by which one measures happiness."
Awards & Recognition
Audience Award
San Francisco Int'l. Film Festival
Best Documentary Feature
San Francisco Int'l. Film Festival
Grand Jury Prize
Sundance Film Festival
Best Scientific Documentary
Docville
CPHDOX
Hot Docs Int'l. Documentary Film Festival
Thessaloniki Documentary Festival
True/False Film Festival