A new voice in Myanmar cinema: ‘MA – Cry of Silence’ debuts at Busan
A poignant tale set against the backdrop of civil unrest
In the midst of Myanmar’s ongoing civil war, a new film is set to make waves at the Busan International Film Festival. ‘MA – Cry of Silence’, directed by The Maw Naing, has been selected for the festival’s prestigious New Currents main competition. This film, a gripping drama, has already garnered attention from the Franco-Japanese sales firm Alpha Violet.
The story of Mi-Thet: A journey of resilience
The narrative centers around Mi-Thet, a young woman working in a garment factory in Yangon. For two months, the factory workers have not received their wages, leading to growing unrest. A group of female workers, led by the determined Nyein-Nyein, decide to organize and demand their due. Initially hesitant due to her family’s tragic history in previous uprisings, Mi-Thet is eventually compelled to join the strike when faced with an urgent personal crisis.
A director with a unique vision
This film marks the second feature by The Maw Naing, who made his directorial debut in 2014 with ‘The Monk’. Naing’s background is as diverse as it is impressive; he studied filmmaking at the Yangon Film School in 2005 and later at FAMU in Prague in 2008. Beyond his work in cinema, Naing is also a celebrated poet and artist, bringing a rich, multifaceted perspective to his storytelling.
An international collaboration
‘MA – Cry of Silence’ is a testament to the power of international collaboration. The film is a co-production involving Myanmar, Singapore, France, Norway, South Korea, and Qatar. It is produced by Maw Naing (One Point Zero) and screenwriter Oh Young Jeong (Plus Point One). The co-producers include Jeremy Chua (Potocol, Singapore), Charlotte Guénin (Massala), Marie Fuglestein Lægreid, Ingrid Lill Høgtun, and Linda Bolstad Strønen (DUO film), and Jean-Baptiste Bailly-Maitre (Alpha Violet Production).
Behind the scenes: Crafting the visual and auditory experience
The film’s visual storytelling is brought to life by cinematographer Tin Win Maing, while the line production is managed by Aung Min Soe. The auditory landscape, a crucial element in conveying the film’s emotional depth, is crafted by chief sound editor and sound designer Mathieu Farnarier.
Anticipation builds for the Busan International Film Festival
The Busan International Film Festival, running from October 2-11, has already disclosed its selections for the New Currents and Jiseok competition sections. The full lineup will be unveiled soon, and the anticipation is palpable. ‘MA – Cry of Silence’ promises to be a standout, offering a powerful narrative that resonates with the current socio-political climate in Myanmar.
Personal reflections: The power of cinema in turbulent times
As a cinema enthusiast, it’s fascinating to see how films like ‘MA – Cry of Silence’ can shed light on real-world issues through compelling storytelling. The film’s focus on the struggles of factory workers in Yangon not only highlights the socio-economic challenges faced by many but also underscores the resilience and solidarity of those who fight for their rights. This narrative is particularly poignant given the ongoing civil unrest in Myanmar, making the film’s debut at an international festival even more significant.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can watch the trailer here.
A broader perspective: The role of international co-productions
The international nature of ‘MA – Cry of Silence’‘s production is a reminder of the collaborative spirit that drives the film industry. By bringing together talents from different countries, the film not only benefits from a diverse range of perspectives but also reaches a wider audience. This kind of collaboration is essential in today’s globalized world, where stories from one part of the world can resonate deeply with audiences elsewhere.
Final thoughts: The enduring impact of storytelling
In times of turmoil, stories have the power to inspire, educate, and bring about change. ‘MA – Cry of Silence’ is a testament to this power, offering a window into the lives of those affected by Myanmar’s civil war. As the film makes its debut at the Busan International Film Festival, it stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding us of the enduring impact of storytelling.
For more information on the film and to stay updated on its journey, visit the Busan International Film Festival page.