BUTTER TEA
Written, Directed, and Cinematography by Tenzin Wangchuk Tasur
Starring Tenzin Phurpatsang & Dhamchoe
Premiered at Tibet Film Festival, Zurich 9/13/2025 (Winner of Audience Award)
Official Selection for New York Short Film Festival 11/7/2025-11/13/2025
Starring Tenzin Phurpatsang & Dhamchoe
Premiered at Tibet Film Festival, Zurich 9/13/2025 (Winner of Audience Award)
Official Selection for New York Short Film Festival 11/7/2025-11/13/2025
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Set in the heart of Queens, New York, Butter Tea tells the story of Tenzin, a young Tibetan-American barista who begins his first day at a newly opened Tibetan cafe. Among the cafe's regular customers is an elder Tibetan named Dorjee who always orders the traditional Tibetan drink of butter tea. Their daily interactions spark an unexpected bond as the two connect across generations, and Tenzin is gradually pulled into a deeper understanding of his cultural identity, guided by Dorjee's quiet wisdom and stories. Rooted in the Tibetan diaspora experience, Butter Tea explores the power of oral tradition and mentorship in preserving heritage. The film invites viewers to see how something as simple as making tea can become an act of remembrance and belonging.
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Still Photos
Director's Statement
Butter Tea is a short story about the bond between generations. Set in Queens, New York, it follows a young Tibetan barista who forms a friendship with an elder Tibetan customer and begins to connect with his roots, not through lectures, but through genuine warmth and storytelling. Making this film was important to me to showcase the patient guidance of role models and elders in my life who helped me understand where I come from. It's deeply personal and I hope it resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their heritage and found healing in small moments of connection.
Butter Tea is a short story about the bond between generations. Set in Queens, New York, it follows a young Tibetan barista who forms a friendship with an elder Tibetan customer and begins to connect with his roots, not through lectures, but through genuine warmth and storytelling. Making this film was important to me to showcase the patient guidance of role models and elders in my life who helped me understand where I come from. It's deeply personal and I hope it resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their heritage and found healing in small moments of connection.