Thai Cave Rescue

In June 2018, one of the most bizarre and harrowing news stories emerged from Thailand: a soccer coach and 12 boys exploring the Tham Luang cave became trapped underground when an unexpected heavy rain flooded the entry. An international team of rescuers was quickly assembled and, miraculously, the boys and their coach were all found alive. But then came the challenge of how to get them out, especially with rising waters flooding the cave. Filmmaker Tom Stubberfield’s PBS-aired NOVA documentary details the various plans for extraction that were considered and rejected—ranging from pumping water out of the cave to drilling a new exit—before it was decided to bring the children through the flooded passages, even though none knew how to swim. The final mission was one of the most ingenious rescue plans ever devised, an extraordinary effort by an international team of volunteers that resulted in the triumphant return of the boys and their coach. The 18-day ordeal is neatly encapsulated in this compelling film that celebrates the endurance of the survivors and their families as well as the bold heroism of their liberators. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)