The massive devastation recently wrought by Cyclone Nargis, combined with the brutal repression of Buddhist monks engaging in pro-democracy demonstrations, have brought intense international attention to military-ruled Myanmar (formerly Burma). But Prayer of Peace focuses on a much longer running example of ongoing cruelty and misery here—the plight of the Karen people, a minority ethnic group struggling for autonomy (ever since the country became independent after World War II) who have been systematically attacked by the reigning military junta. Filmmaker Matt Blauer's brief documentary features Karen villagers testifying about having to flee from their homes to refugee centers across the Thai border, and also follows the efforts of relief workers to bring food and medical supplies surreptitiously into Karen territory. One can't help but be moved by the stories of these displaced but stalwart villagers, or footage of ill and injured children being cared for in makeshift infirmaries. Yet viewers will also be heartened by the work being done by volunteers (under intensely difficult conditions) to help the beleaguered Karen people. DVD extras include the featurette “This Is My Home,” which offers a brief account of Burmese history from the Karen perspective; an alternate version of Prayer of Peace in the Karen language; and a lesson plan and guidebook. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)
Prayer of Peace: Relief & Resistance in Burma's War Zones
(2007) 28 min. DVD: $99.95. Choices, Inc. PPR. ISBN: 978-1-933724-21-8. Volume 23, Issue 4
Prayer of Peace: Relief & Resistance in Burma's War Zones
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