Watch Burma & Cambodia - Lands of Conflict

Burma & Cambodia - Lands of Conflict is a documentary that explores two countries in Southeast Asia which have experienced a long history of turmoil and conflict. The movie provides a unique look into the lives of people affected by the conflicts, the underlying issues that led to the conflicts, and how these issues are being addressed.

The movie begins with a brief introduction to the geography and history of both countries, highlighting their shared colonial past and the subsequent struggles they faced after achieving independence. Burma, now known as Myanmar, has had a tumultuous history marked by military regimes, ethnic conflict and human rights violations, while Cambodia was ravaged by civil war and the infamous Khmer Rouge regime which was responsible for the deaths of millions of people.

The first half of the movie is focused on Myanmar, where the filmmakers travel to various parts of the country to meet with people who have been affected by its long history of conflict. They visit Karen state, an area which has been ravaged by fighting between the military and ethnic minority groups for many years. The filmmakers talk to Karen villagers who have been displaced by the conflict and forced to live in refugee camps along the border with Thailand. Their stories are heart-wrenching and provide a powerful insight into the human cost of conflict.

The movie then moves on to Rangoon (now known as Yangon), the former capital of Myanmar, where they speak to citizens who have been fighting for democracy and human rights for many years. They also speak to Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, who was under house arrest for over a decade by the military regime.

The second half of the movie focuses on Cambodia, where the filmmakers visit the capital city, Phnom Penh, and travel to the remote provinces to meet with villagers affected by the ongoing issue of landmines. They also speak to members of the Khmer Rouge tribunal, which was set up to bring justice to the victims of the Khmer Rouge regime.

Throughout the movie, the filmmakers provide a balanced and nuanced perspective on the conflicts in both countries. They highlight the complexities of the issues and avoid painting a simplistic picture of the situations. They also make an effort to engage with the local people and provide a platform for their voices to be heard. This approach makes the movie a compelling and insightful watch.

In addition to the interviews and personal stories, the movie also showcases the beautiful scenery of both countries. The filmmakers capture stunning footage of the lush jungles, ancient temples, and bustling cities, providing a visual backdrop to the stories they tell.

Overall, Burma & Cambodia - Lands of Conflict is a powerful and informative documentary that provides a unique insight into two countries with complex histories and ongoing struggles. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Southeast Asian history and politics, and for those looking to understand the human cost of conflict.