Electric Burma: The Concert For Aung San Suu Kyi

Electric Burma: The Concert for Aung San Suu Kyi is a documentary film that captures an unforgettable celebration event: a tribute concert held in the honor of globally revered pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. This film, released in 2011, chronicles not just the actual concert, but the extraordinary life and struggles of Aung San Suu Kyi as she tirelessly fought for the democratic rights of the burmese people.

The documentary is filmed in the style of a concert film, interspersed with intimate documentary material. It is an historical recording of an extraordinary concert held at Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin, Ireland. It was the Freedom Concert honoring Aung San Suu Kyi, where she was also presented with the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award. Captured during her first visit to Europe in 24 years and after years of house arrest, this concert becomes a noteworthy celebration of her strength, determination and achievements.

Electric Burma: The Concert for Aung San Suu Kyi exhibits a remarkable line-up of international artists who come together to pay tribute, demonstrate their respect, admiration and solidarity for Aung San Suu Kyi and her relentless struggle for the people of Myanmar. The concert features an array of prominent performers from various music genres, including artists like Damien Rice, Bono from U2, Bob Geldof, and several others. These artists bring life, emotion, and spirituality, creating a vibrant bridge between music and political activism. The music performances are dotted with moving speeches and powerful visual presentations, enhancing the emotional intensity of this event.

Apart from the concert itself, the movie skillfully interweaves interviews with Aung San Suu Kyi, along with contributions from politicians, activists and performers, giving audiences a rare insight into Aung San Suu Kyi’s life, struggle and personality. Her remarkable resilience, as well as her piercing intellect and quiet charisma, are beautifully captured and portrayed through these interviews, discussions and her interactions at the event.

The film opens with anticipation building up to the concert and follows the narrative of the day, creating a captivating storyline that brings to life the immense hope and challenge that this event represented. We see the artists, performers and concert organisers in their candid, raw moments, the hours spent in preparation, sound checks and run-throughs, moments of camaraderie and shared banter, all adding layers of authenticity and depth to the film.

However, the heart of the film is no doubt, Aung San Suu Kyi herself. The audience is granted a rare glimpse into her personal journey, her sacrifices, her activism, and her courage under brutal political oppression. Her heartfelt address on receiving the Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award, is a profound and moving highlight of the movie.

The film also reflects on the critical role of art and music in inspiring and uniting people for a cause. This dynamic atmosphere, full of music, comedy, speeches and multimedia visual installations, creates an extraordinary tribute to Aung San Suu Kyi and her fight for justice and democracy.

Directed by Geoffrey O’Connor, the film is masterfully shot with segments that capture both the charged atmosphere on stage as well as the quiet, contemplative moments backstage. The energy, the emotions and the collective will of multiple individuals caught in the spirit of celebrating an iconic figure like Suu Kyi is very palpable.

In conclusion, Electric Burma: The Concert For Aung San Suu Kyi is more than a simple event recording; it's a remarkable testimony to the power of music, art and collective will in standing up against injustice and fighting for democracy and human rights. It sheds light on the inspiring life and relentless struggle of Aung San Suu Kyi, while also being a memorable event filled with powerful music performances and poignant speeches. With engaging visuals, emotional depth and a significant political undercurrent, it is a film that stirs, educates, and inspires.