Watch Born Sweet

Born Sweet (2010) is a feature-length documentary film that tells the story of a young Cambodian boy named Vinh who suffers from a deadly and debilitating disease known as arsenicosis. Arsenicosis is a condition caused by long-term exposure to arsenic, which is a naturally occurring element found in groundwater in many parts of the world. In Cambodia, arsenic levels in the groundwater are particularly high, and as a result, many people in rural areas are at risk of developing the disease.

The documentary follows Vinh, who is just twelve years old when the film starts, as he struggles to cope with the effects of arsenicosis. Vinh is unable to walk, and his body is twisted and contorted by the disease. Despite his physical limitations, Vinh is a bright and charismatic young boy with a strong sense of humor and an unwavering spirit.

The film was directed by Cynthia Wade, an Academy Award-winning documentary filmmaker known for her work on issues related to social justice and human rights. Wade first met Vinh in 2003, while working on a project in Cambodia. She was struck by his strength and resilience in the face of such a terrible disease, and she decided to make a film about his life.

Throughout the film, we see Vinh's daily struggles and the challenges he faces as a result of his condition. But we also see his remarkable resilience and the way he refuses to let the disease define him. Vinh attends school, plays with his friends, and dreams of one day becoming a karaoke singer. He also receives a life-changing surgery that helps him walk for the first time in years.

Born Sweet is a deeply moving film that explores themes of resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit. It also sheds light on the issue of arsenicosis in Cambodia and the urgent need for clean drinking water in rural areas. The film is a powerful reminder of the importance of access to clean water and the devastating effects that pollution can have on human health.

The cinematography in the film is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Cambodian countryside and intimate moments with Vinh and his family. The film is also accompanied by a beautiful and haunting soundtrack that captures the emotional depth of Vinh's story.

One of the most powerful aspects of Born Sweet is the way it humanizes the experience of living with a rare disease. By following Vinh's life over a period of years, the film allows us to see him as a person, rather than just a patient. We see his hopes and dreams, his fears and his struggles, and we come to understand the depth of his resilience and determination.

Overall, Born Sweet is a deeply moving and powerful film that sheds light on an important issue while telling a compelling and inspiring story. It is a testament to the power of the human spirit and a reminder that, even in the face of great adversity, there is always hope.