The Burma War, also known as the Myanmar War, has been the subject of several films that have explored the historical, political, and social aspects of the conflict. These films often depict the struggles and experiences of people affected by the war, shedding light on the human cost of the conflict and the resilience of those involved.
Here are some existing films about the Burma War:
“Beyond Rangoon”, 1995
Director: John Boorman
Set against the backdrop of the 8888 Uprising in Burma, this film follows the journey of a doctor and her companions as they navigate the dangers and political unrest of the country.
Starring: Patricia Arquette, U Aung Ko, Frances McDormand, Spalding Gray, Tiara Jacquelina, Kuswadinata, Victor Slezak, Jit Murad, Ye Myint, Cho Cho Myint, Johnny Cheah, Haji Mohd Rajoli, Azmi Hassan, Ahmad Fithi, Adelle Lutz, Mohd Wan Nazri, Zaidi Omar, Roslee Mansor, Michael Pickells, Enzo Rossi, Ridzuan Hashim, Samko, Ramona Diaz Sanchez, Norlela Ismail, Nyak Osman, Yusof Abdul Hamid, Lutang Anyie, Dion Abu Bakar, Ali Fiji, Yeoh Keat Chye, Johari Ismail, Rashidi Mohd, William Saw, Ann Howard, Manisah Mandin, Charley Boorman, Hani Mohsin Hanafi, Ismail Din, Jamaludin Rejab, Aung, Peter Win, John Mindy, U Kyaw Win, Gael D'Oliviera, Pascale D'Oliviera, Gilles D'Oliviera, Asmi Wahab, Albert Thaw, Mansell Rivers-Bland, Siti Abdullah;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: action, drama, adventure;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 100 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,5;
More information about the film “Beyond Rangoon” on the website imdb.com
“The Lady”, 2011
Director: Luc Besson
This biographical film tells the story of Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of the National League for Democracy in Myanmar, and her nonviolent struggle for democracy and human rights in the face of military opposition.
Starring: Michelle Yeoh, David Thewlis, Jonathan Raggett, Jonathan Woodhouse, Susan Wooldridge, Benedict Wong, Markus Waldow, Htun Lin, Agga Poechit, Donatienne Dupont, Phoe Zaw, Marian Yu, May, Ko Ko Win Aung, Thein Win, San Lwin, Zaw Oo, Nay Myo Thant, Victoria Sanvalli, Flint Bangkok, Thwel Zin Toe, Dujdao Vadhanapakorn, Sahajak Boonthanakit, Prapimporn Kanjunda, Soraya La-ong Ake, Star, Honey, William Hope, Jay Villiers, Louis Hilyer, Nicholas Jones, Anton Lesser, Paul Brennen, Amanda Lawrence, François Lescurat, Junix Inocian, Frank Walmsley, Ilario Bisi-Pedro, Maung Maung Khim, Win Kyaw Tun, Kriang Kunsri, Tun Tun, Khin Maung Yin, Nicolas Vee, Akira Koieyama, Al Barclay, Guy Barwell, Antony Hickling, Teerawat Mulvilai, Aurore Pariente;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, melodrama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “The Lady” on the website imdb.com
“The Road to Mandalay”, 1926
Director: Tod Browning
This film follows the journey of two Burmese immigrants as they seek better opportunities in Thailand, highlighting the struggles and challenges faced by those affected by the Burma War.
Starring: Lon Chaney, Lois Moran, Owen Moore, Henry B. Walthall, Sôjin Kamiyama, Rose Langdon, John George, Margie Angus, Mary Angus, Sam Baker, Lenore Bushman, Virginia Bushman, Willie Fung, Eric Mayne, Robert Seiter, Eddie Sturgis;
Production year: 1926;
Genre: drama;
Duration: 70 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,3;
“The Lovers”, 2014
Director: Roland Joffé
Set in the midst of the Burma War, this film centers around a forbidden romance between a Burmese soldier and a village girl, exploring the complexities of love and loyalty in a time of conflict.
Starring: Josh Hartnett, Bipasha Basu, Tamsin Egerton, Alice Englert, Simone Kessell, James Mackay, Abhay Deol, Aegina De Vas, Bille Brown, Andrea Deck, Tehmina Sunny, Mahesh Jadu, Roshan Seth, Matthew Beard, Steve Nicolson, Vijay Thombre, Frank M. Ahearn, Jeremy Booth, Shane Briant, Bernard Collaco, Milind Gunaji, Shivaji Ingale, Sukesh Khosla, Griffin Kimble, Dennis Kreusler, Atul Kulkarni, Carol McFadden, Anna McNiven, Joel Pierce, Nisha Sharma Pokharel, Bryan Probets, Tara Jade Ross, Samuel R. Wright, Bruno Xavier, Trevor Comber, Aso Sherabayani;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: fantasy, melodrama, adventure;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 109 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 4,6;
These films offer different perspectives on the Burma War, capturing the emotional, human, and political dimensions of the conflict.
In conclusion, films about the Burma War serve as poignant reminders of the complexities and tragedies of conflict, shedding light on the human experience amidst the chaos of war. These narratives, whether they focus on the brutal realities faced by soldiers, the resilience of civilians, or the moral dilemmas confronted by individuals, offer valuable insights into the historical and emotional landscape of this often-overlooked chapter in military history. By exploring themes of sacrifice, survival, and the enduring impact of war on both personal and collective levels, these films not only honor the memories of those who lived through the conflict but also encourage contemporary audiences to reflect on the broader implications of war and peace. As we engage with these cinematic portrayals, we are reminded of the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster understanding in an increasingly complex world.
