Watch Buffalo Girls

Buffalo Girls is a 2012 documentary film that provides an insightful look into the world of female Muay Thai boxing in Thailand. The film follows two young girls from the rural northern part of the country, 8-year-old Stam Sor Con Lek and 15-year-old Pet Chor Chanachai, as they pursue their dreams of becoming champions in this male-dominated sport.

Stam and Pet are both from poor families, and they see Muay Thai as a way out of poverty for themselves and their families. They start training at a young age, and their families dedicate their lives to supporting their daughters' dreams.

The film explores the grueling training regimens and harsh realities that these girls face as they prepare for fights. We see them training every day, sparring with their male counterparts, and working on their techniques in order to become the best in their weight classes. Stam is shown to be particularly fearless in the ring, and her fights are thrilling to watch.

The film also delves into the cultural context that surrounds the sport of Muay Thai, which is deeply ingrained in Thai history and tradition. We see the girls and their families participating in rituals before fights, and they offer a glimpse into the superstition and mysticism that permeate the world of Muay Thai.

Buffalo Girls also touches on the darker side of the sport, such as the exploitation of young female fighters by promoters and sponsors. The film highlights the physical and emotional toll that this lifestyle can take on these young girls, especially as they are forced to fight against older and stronger opponents in order to make a living.

Despite the challenges that Stam and Pet face, they both remain determined to succeed in Muay Thai. We see them grow stronger and more confident with each fight, and we root for them as they strive towards their goals.

The film's cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the Thai countryside and the intensity of the fights. The camera work during the fights is particularly impressive, immersing the viewer in the excitement and tension of each match.

Overall, Buffalo Girls is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a little-known aspect of Thai culture. It is a deeply human story that will inspire and move viewers, and it is a must-watch for anyone interested in combat sports or documentaries about strong female protagonists.