Burma VJ

About three weeks ago I went to see the documentary Burma VJ. Incredibly moving, Burma VJ tells the overwhelmingly depressing story of the people of Burma living in complete oppression under the rule of a tough military regime. Burma, much like the communist country China, forbids any news from surrounding countries. Burmese people receive broadcasts from their government that are filtered and only announce what their government allows.
The majority of the Burmese people are malnourished, homeless, and unemployed. The last movement against the government was during the 1980s, after a few days the military gunned down all citizens participating in the movement. Over three thousand people were killed that day. After that, hardly anyone protested against the regime. However, there were still a few brave souls that were determined to at least let the world know of the spirit and determination of the Burmese people.
Although they risked torture and life in jail, a small group of young Burmese journalists kept the world in loop with their country. Hiding small cameras in bags and clothes, the journalists captured the torture of the people in the streets and unjust actions by the government. "Joshua" is introduced to the audience in the documentary; he heads the group of journalists. During the historical days of September 2007, "Joshua" smuggled thousands of clips of the movement against the government to surrounding countries. The world got to witness the people of Burma standing up against their government.
I found this documentary so moving and I definitely recommend anyone to watch it. Just watching the spirit of the Burmese people is amazing. To live in such oppression and be able to still fight against the government knowing there's a bigger chance of losing, is amazing. Its fascinating how these journalists literally risk their lives, just so people like us in the United States can witness what is happening and we can raise awareness of what is happening in Burma. Many monks who were captured in the movement in September 2007 are still being held in jail. To learn more about Burma, the people, the movement, and to petition to free the monks, you can visit ww.burmavjmovie.com.