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Golden Kingdom is a gripping and emotive drama that was written and directed by Brian Perkins. Released in 2015, the movie tells the story of four young Buddhist monks who are faced with unimaginable challenges while living in an isolated monastery in the dense forests of Myanmar. The movie follows the lives of the four young monks: U Zawana, U Htet, U Zaw Min, and U Witthara. They have been living together in the monastery since they were young boys, dedicating their lives to the teachings of Buddha and their community. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when they are forced to flee the monastery after a violent attack by the Myanmar military. The monks are thrust into an unfamiliar and dangerous world outside the monastery, where they must navigate the perils of the forest and the complexities of human relationships.

Golden Kingdom is an incredibly well-made film that succeeds in transporting the viewer into the world of the young monks. The lush cinematography and hauntingly beautiful score create a serene atmosphere that contrasts perfectly with the harsh realities that the monks must face. The film does an excellent job of depicting the beauty of the Myanmar landscape and its people, while also acknowledging the brutal political climate that has plagued the country for decades.

The movie's cast of young actors deliver outstanding performances that evoke a range of emotions from the audience. Shine Htet Zaw, who plays U Zawana, is particularly impressive, conveying a deep sense of compassion and wisdom that is well beyond his years. Ko Yin Saw Ri, Ko Yin Than Maung, and Ko Yin Maung Sein also give unforgettable performances, creating a dynamic and realistic portrayal of the young monks.

One of the most striking aspects of Golden Kingdom is its exploration of the tensions that exist within traditional Buddhist communities. While the film does not explicitly criticize Buddhism or any other religion, it does highlight the ways in which religious traditions can create social divisions and exclusion. The monks' interactions with the forest people and other outsiders reveal how the strict rules of their community can be both a source of comfort and a hindrance when faced with the outside world.

The film also touches on the political situation in Myanmar, where violence and persecution have been rampant for decades. While the movie is not a political one, it does raise powerful questions about the responsibility of religious leaders in times of crisis and the role of faith in the face of oppression and violence.

Overall, Golden Kingdom is a beautifully crafted film that touches on a range of important themes while remaining true to the story of its characters. It is a powerful meditation on faith, compassion, and the human experience that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Golden Kingdom is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.