List six facts described in the movie that impressed you and explained why
The interview of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her struggle for liberation in Myanmar (They Call It Myanmar) - It impressed me because it is amazing that in such a country, a woman can emerge and lead.
Myanmar people are optimistic and remain confident- Hope makes even dull situations glorious.
The country has a lot of resources (They Call It Myanmar)- Resources improve the status of people and improve the economy if managed properly.
Buddhist attitude to life- They have a very positive attitude towards life that makes one hope even in dire situations.
Local people didn't change the way they live, despite the current trend of globalization- It is always refreshing to see indigenous cultures.
The bonus part of the film that shows new generations striving to improve their lives and change the story of the nation (They Call It Myanmar).
Did you learn anything from this movie? What is it?
The movie was an eye-opener on how dictatorial regimes can destroy a country and how a few can still struggle to keep hope and struggle for liberation. It is also a surprise that such atrocities can be committed, and the whole world seems to turn a blind eye to everything. I also learnt that fundamental human rights should not be taken for granted since it lacks in some places in the world.
Was there anything that you learned from the film that was unconvincing or which seemed out of place?
It appears unreal that the people are happy about the military rule, hanging on to Buddhism principles that have made them have a general acceptance of their situation (They Call It Myanmar). Even though it cannot be termed unconvincing, it is hard to believe that any peace is possible in such conditions.
Did the film change your mind about any aspect of the subject that it represents? What information, arguments or persuasive technique caused you to change your mind?
While the film did not convince me to change my mind about Myanmar since I had very little knowledge about the country, it opened my eyes to a different world. The personal interviews shown in the film, touching images shown have revealed to me the dire situation in this country. The film used emotive images to convince viewers and make them empathize with the situation.
If someone asked you whether you would recommend this film, how would you respond?
Yes, I would recommend this film to someone else since it is educative and entertaining at the same time. The film can be used for education purposes in schools and colleges. It can also be used by humanitarian agencies to lobby for donations to help change the situation in Myanmar.
If the filmmakers were to ask you how the film can be improved, what would you tell them? Describe the changes that you would suggest in detail and the reason for your suggestion.
The film did not delve much into the plight of ethnic minorities and only mentioned them in passing. The film should have also given them as much coverage to highlight their plight to the world and possibly, their government.
What is your overall reaction to this film?
I had mixed reactions to the film; I was shocked to learn that Burma is in such a state and that there are people who live in squalid conditions. I was also full of admiration for the filmmaker for having the courage to go out and put the movie together for the world to see. The film was a sad reality.
Works Cited
They Call It Myanmar: Lifting the Curtain. Hollywood: Robert H. Lieberman, 2002.Video.
