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Joy is a 2019 Mongolian drama film directed by Tsogtbayar Namsrai and starring Ts. Michidmaa and U. Munguntulga. The movie tells the story of a young woman named Joy who is a talented musician but struggles to find success due to the societal expectations placed on her as a woman. The film explores themes of gender inequality, artistic expression, and self-discovery.

The story is set in present-day Mongolia and follows Joy, a young woman from a rural area who moves to the city to pursue her dream of becoming a musician. Her talent for playing the morin khuur, a traditional Mongolian instrument, is undeniable, but she faces numerous obstacles along the way. Her family and community disapprove of her ambition, believing that women should focus on marriage and raising a family. Joy's father is particularly unsupportive, frequently reminding her of her duty to adhere to the traditional gender roles of their society.

Despite these challenges, Joy remains determined to achieve her goals. She forms a band with other young musicians and begins performing at local cafes and bars. Her bandmates are supportive of her talent and share her passion for music, but they also face their own challenges as aspiring artists.

As Joy's career takes off, she also finds herself in a complicated romantic relationship with a wealthy businessman named Amra. Amra is intrigued by Joy's talent and individuality, but he also represents the societal expectations that Joy is attempting to break free from. Their relationship is further complicated by the fact that Amra is already married and has a young daughter.

Throughout the film, Joy's journey is depicted as a struggle for personal and artistic freedom. She navigates the complex web of family expectations, societal norms, and her own desires, ultimately discovering her own identity as a musician and a woman. The film's climax is a powerful musical performance by Joy and her band, in which she fully embraces her talent and individuality.

Overall, Joy is a moving exploration of the challenges that women face in pursuing their dreams in traditional societies. The film's depiction of Joy's journey is nuanced and often bittersweet, highlighting the difficulties that she faces while also celebrating her talent and resilience. The performances by Ts. Michidmaa and U. Munguntulga are exceptional, bringing depth and complexity to their characters. The film's cinematography is also notable, capturing the beauty and harshness of the Mongolian landscape.

In conclusion, Joy is a must-see film for anyone interested in stories about personal and artistic freedom, gender equality, and self-discovery. It is a touching and thought-provoking drama that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Joy is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes.