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In Nepal, the term “Kinnar” refers to citizens who identify under a legally recognized meti, or “third gender,” designation. Kinnar representation has ancient cultural and religious roots in the subcontinent dating back over a thousand years. Today many intentional communities, Kinnar families, of trans women thrive in the country, bound together by their pledges of fealty and celibacy, led by appointed “mothers” and overseen by gurus. Elephants in the Fog—the first-ever Nepali feature film officially selected at Cannes, where it won the Prix du Jury in Un Certain Regard—stars Kinnar activist Pushpa Thing Lama as Pirati, the matriarch of a Kinnar community deep in a forest inhabited by dangerous wild elephants. Pirati is considering abdicating her role in the community for love, but when her daughter Joon (Sahab Din Miya) disappears into the forest, she is forced to investigate. Lama had never acted before, but her presence is undeniable, her stoicism radiating dignity as well as a reservoir of feeling and conflict under a composed surface. The gripping missing-person case methodically reveals persistent societal prejudices, building to one of the most exhilarating conclusions in film this year. As the saying goes, “Run into the river if you see a rhino. Climb a tree if you see a tiger. But for an elephant, just pray to God.” ~OO