Laos: Documentary On Lao History Produced With Philippines Assistance

1 July 2010

A short documentary of Laos’s history that gives viewers a glimpse into the past in the run up to the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as capital this year, will be produced with assistance from a professional production team from the Philippines.

Work began on the 50-minute documentary last year and is set for completion next month. It will be produced by six filmmakers from the National Film Archive and Video Centre with an editing team coming from the Philippines in August to assemble the best sequences for the final version.

The film comprises three segments: the first relates to the reign of each of the Lao kings including Chao Anouvong and Xaysetthathirath; the second depicts the role of the Party in freeing the country from invaders; and the last segment focuses on present-day development and will highlight significant meetings such as the ASEAN Summit and the Southeast Asian Games.

Production Director from the Film Department, Mr Bounchao Phichit, who is also Director General of the Department under the Ministry of Information and Culture, admitted the first segment had been difficult to compile because they had no film records as they did for the second and third parts, so they interviewed historians and shot footage in various museums. The production team will also include the procession to commemorate the deeds of King Xaysetthathirath and a show replicating the transfer of the capital from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, as these are the highlights of the anniversary celebrations.

“Through this documentary Lao people will be able to learn about Lao history so they can be more proud of their country,” Mr Bounchao said. When the film is finished the Film Department will show it on Lao National Television, Lao Star Channel and as a mobile film ahead of the anniversary in November.

Source: Vientiane Times