Watch The Venerable W

The Venerable W is a 2017 documentary film that explores the rise of Buddhist nationalism in Myanmar, particularly through the controversial figure of Ashin Wirathu. The film is directed by Barbet Schroeder and was screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017. The documentary follows the life of Ashin Wirathu, an influential Buddhist monk who is known for his extremist views and anti-Muslim rhetoric. Through interviews with Wirathu, as well as with activists, journalists, and politicians, the film offers an in-depth look at the factors that have fueled the rise of religious extremism in Myanmar.

One of the key themes of the film is the history of political and religious tension in Myanmar, which dates back to the country's colonial past. The film argues that the country's complex political history, combined with economic struggles and the emergence of social media, has created a climate where extremist views can flourish.

At the center of this narrative is Wirathu, who is portrayed as a charismatic leader who has exploited these conditions for his own gain. The film offers a detailed exploration of Wirathu's background, including his time as a political prisoner and his role in the nationalist movement that has swept the country.

Throughout the film, there are also interviews with a number of other key figures in this story, including U Zanitar, a Buddhist monk who has spoken out against Wirathu's views, and Kyaw Zayar Htun, an activist who has faced persecution for advocating for the rights of the country's Muslim minority.

Overall, The Venerable W is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a window into the complex political and religious dynamics of modern-day Myanmar. While it is certainly not an easy watch, the film's unflinching portrayal of religious extremism and violence serves as a stark reminder of the importance of religious tolerance and understanding.

The Venerable W is a 2017 documentary 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 7.1 and a MetaScore of 79.