The Cup: unassuming and sweetly charming, Khyentse Norbu’s film looks at an isolated Buddhist monastery in India during the 1998 World Cup and the efforts of a few young monks to watch its finals. It deals with the dualities of tradition and modernization, of isolation and connection, and how they can still result in spiritual awareness and religious teaching. Jamyang Lodro plays the young football enthusiast with a great deal of mischievous energy; Lama Chonjor, as the homesick and benevolent abbot, is the embodiment of tradition; Orgyen Tobgyal plays the second-in-command, a monk who is stern but also world-wise, the middle ground between the two sides. The film has a simple but effective look, as cinematographer Paul Warren captures the serene location and rich colours of the costumes and buildings. Composer Douglas Mills’ music fits well the material.