The Venerable W

The Venerable W is an intriguing 2017 documentary film that aims to provide an in-depth look at one particularly enigmatic figure behind Myanmar’s deadly anti-Muslim sentiments - Ashin Wirathu, who is otherwise known as The Venerable W. The movie adroitly explores the paradox of a religious leader exuding hate speech in a country that’s globally recognized for its peaceful Buddhist majority. Directly helmed by the acclaimed director Barbet Schroeder, this film is part of his "Trilogy of Evil," which includes "General Idi Amin Dada: A Self Portrait" and "Terror's Advocate."

The titular character, Ashin Wirathu, is a highly influential and controversial Buddhist monk in Myanmar. He is a deft orator and spiritual guide to many, yet he's also a staunch promoter of anti-Muslim sentiment in his country. This paradox offers an alarming and profound critique of the depths that nationalism and religious fervor can reach and the social divisions they can create when manipulated by charismatic leaders.

Frankly capturing Wirathu’s sermons, speeches, and public appearances, the film sheds light on his tumultuous rise to fame and influence. Known for vicious hate speeches that agitate fear and prejudice against Muslims, Wirathu's messages have precipitated violent attacks and genocide. Strikingly, the monk's powerful words influence not only the average Myanmar citizen but also significantly alter the prevailing political structure.

Accompanying the fascinating and eye-opening personal journey of Wirathu are interviews with key figures around him. Among these include U. Zanitar and Kyaw Zayar Htun. Their testimonies provide perspective and depth to the monk’s complex character as they offer deeper insights into the societal fabric Wirathu’s rhetoric has strongly influenced.

Despite his troubling views, it's undeniable that Wirathu's charisma is a significant driving force for his following. Strath Schroeder does not shy away from illustrating Wirathu’s softer side; showing his approachability, contagious laughter, and a down-to-earth demeanor that starkly contrasts his infamous reputation. The director paints a nuanced portrait that challenges audiences to detangle the very realities of religious manipulation, population control, and social divisions.

"The Venerable W" also delivers a chilling study of a society steeped in religious intolerance and where fear is used as an instrument of control by the powerful. Director Schroeder masterfully evokes the tensions in various settings, from the monasteries populated by monk-followers of Wirathu to the bustling streets where his speeches echo, stirring deep-seated sentiments among the populace.

While the film portrays these unsettling realities, it does not miss digging into the historical contexts that have nurtured such sentiments. Apart from their faith, many Myanmar citizens are driven by their resentment and fear towards colonial and neoliberal policies that perceived to have marginalized them. Wirathu masterfully taps into these historical tensions, channeling them to ramp up the disturbing anti-Muslim sentiment.

"The Venerable W" epitomizes the power of documentary filmmaking, offering penetrating insights into the person of Ashin Wirathu and the complex structures around which his enigmatic personality operates. It is a film that does not only tell a story but also unravels the varied layers of historical, societal, and personal motivations that construct a narrative, stirring thought, and discussions among its viewers. With its balanced, nuanced, and intelligent observations, "The Venerable W" is a film whose relevance goes beyond a specific locale or culture. It's a crucial watch that prompts dialogues on the harmful consequences of intolerant religious ideologies and hate speeches.

As such, the film becomes an ode to the necessity of studying the socio-political climates that allowed hate speech to flourish. It serves a gut-wrenching reminder of how paradoxical and destructive religious manipulation can be. It also condemns conformity and highlights the power of critical thinking, especially in a world where dangerous messages easily proliferate and can quickly sway public sentiment.

All in all, Schroeder's "The Venerable W" is an important addition to the alarming global dialogue about the dangerously increasing wave of hate-driven nationalism. This courageous and disturbing exploration provides fodder for much-needed conversations about religion, nationalism, and the disastrous wakes they leave when used as instruments of division and hate. As an intense, eye-opening film, The Venerable W is a powerful testament to the dangerous potential of charisma and rhetoric when wielded irresponsibly and without empathy.