Watch Beyond Rangoon

Beyond Rangoon is a 1995 American-British drama film directed by John Boorman and starring Patricia Arquette, U Aung Ko, and Frances McDormand. The story is a fictional account of a woman's journey of self-discovery and inner strength in the midst of political turmoil and violence in Myanmar. The film centers around Laura Bowman (Patricia Arquette), an American doctor who travels to Myanmar with her sister on a vacation to escape the tragic loss of her husband and son in a car accident. The trip takes a dark turn when she witnesses the brutal murder of her sister by the military forces while participating in a pro-democracy protest.

Stranded in Rangoon with no passport, Laura meets U Aung Ko (U Aung Ko), a Burmese freedom fighter who helps smuggle her out of the city disguised as a nun. Together with a group of refugees, she embarks on a perilous journey through the jungles of Myanmar to reach the Thai border.

Throughout the journey, Laura confronts her grief and guilt over her past while discovering a newfound sense of purpose and courage as she becomes increasingly involved in the fight for democracy alongside her fellow travelers.

The film explores the political and social aspects of Myanmar, highlighting the inhumane acts of violence committed by the military forces against civilians and the struggles of those fighting for justice and democracy. The stunning cinematography and beautiful score provide a poignant backdrop for the events taking place on screen, evoking the emotional turmoil and resilience of the characters.

Patricia Arquette delivers a powerful and emotional performance as Laura, portraying a woman whose journey is not only physical but also emotional and psychological. Her character is relatable, human, and the audience can feel her pain and struggles throughout the journey.

U Aung Ko is a standout in his role as the patriotic freedom fighter, depicting the struggle of oppressed communities in Myanmar, and their fight against the military to demand their rights. Frances McDormand has a brief but memorable role as a nurse who provides comfort and guidance to Laura and her fellow travelers.

Beyond Rangoon is a profound and thought-provoking film that sheds light on a dark period of Myanmar's history. It is a story of personal growth, sacrifice, and redemption, and is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Overall, Beyond Rangoon is a must-watch film for those interested in political dramas, and for those who appreciate the beauty and power of filmmaking. It is a film that leaves a lasting impact, reminding us of the importance of fighting for justice and democracy, and the power of the human spirit to overcome even the darkest of circumstances.

Beyond Rangoon is a 1995 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.