Film Review: THE LADY
"An powerful, topical film, both tearful and heartwarming, well worth seeing" ... Naomi
WHAT IS 'THE LADY' ABOUT? ...
An epic story of the peaceful quest of Aung San Suu Kyi and Michael Aris, for democracy in Burma, demonstrating Suu Kyi's dedication, sacrifice, support and love of family and country.
LEFT ME FEELING ...
The painful sacrifices, love and angst were portrayed in a way that made me empathize and understand, but didn't leave me completely wrung out, too devastated to go on. Saying that, I still suggest you take a stash of tissues.
Often when I'm disillusioned and cynical, all hope destroyed by the actions of dark spirited people who choose to be pitiless and cruel, I am then I'm inspired by others such as Aung San Suu Kyi and her husband, Michael Aris, who blaze a stand, risking life, love and sanity for the greater good of others. And then I think, some of us can do better ... but will we?
Michelle Yeoh in THE LADY
WHO'S IN IT ...
Michelle Yeoh - who had to learn to speak Burmese for the film, David Thewlis, Jonathan Raggett, Jonathan Woodhouse, Htun Lin and many others
COMMENTS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
“Suu Kyi's struggle is one of the most extraordinary examples of civil courage in Asia in recent decades.” - The Norwegian Nobel Committee (1991)
“In physical stature she is petite and elegant, but in moral stature she is a giant. Big men are scared of her. Armed to the teeth and they still run scared.” ‐ Desmond Tutu
“She is a hero of mine and a source of inspiration.” - Barack Obama
“Aung San Suu Kyi is an inspiration for all of us who believe in freedom of speech, democracy and human rights.” ‐ David Cameron“Your determination and courage continue to inspire friends of freedom around the world” ‐ Bill Clinton
“She’s my hero” – Bono
"Please, use your freedom to promote ours" - Aung San Suu Kyi
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR ...
David Thewlis, who plays Michael Aris, also plays his twin brother Anthony.
FACTS ...
Release date 19 April. Rated MA15+
Luc Besson said they checked Google Earth to get the exact dimensions for Suu Kyi's house and then rebuilt the house identically, down to the last detail, even the piano is the same brand and the frames on her parents photos.
Filmed in Thailand, Oxford (England) and France over three and a half months.
A FEW OF THE FILM MAKERS ...
Luc Besson director of THE LADY
Screenwriter: Rebecca Frayn
Producers: Virginie Besson-Silla, Andy Harries
Director: Luc Besson, also directed THE FIFTH ELEMENT and LEON: THE PROFESSIONAL
Director of Photography: Thierry Arbogast
Production Design: Hugues Tissandier
Editor: Julien Rey
Costume Design: Olivier Bériot
Music: Éric Serra
Images: THE LADY Copyright © 2012 - No unauthorised copying or publication without express permission