Since graduating from Beijing Film Academy, he has worked as a cinematographer and artistic director of a series of Tibetan films and documentaries, including Pema Tseden's The Silent Holy Stones, The Search and Old Dog.

In addition to his roles in those films, he has written and directed two of his own films.

Sonthar Gyal thought that the scripts and the "soul" of the content were key reasons for his successes.

"In the past, there were many films on Tibetan culture and life, but they were not in Tibetan dialogue or with Tibetan actors," he said. "Tibetans tell Tibetan stories themselves; it is our characteristic, and I am proud of it."

Produced by the Garuda Film & TV Culture Communication Co, River and The Sun Beaten Path are expected to be released in China for TV and online distribution in early 2016, according to the company.

Huang Xiaorong, 28, a member of the audience in Lhasa, said of River: "It is really shocking to watch the mood of Yanchan Lhamo in the film. The whole process struck me, and it is touching to see the relationship between father and son, daughter and father, the couple, and between the three generations."

She said she is has not tired of watching the film and has seen it three times. She especially likes the final scene.

Contact the writers at palden_nyima@chinadaily.com.cn