The Lady is the true story of Aung San Suu Kyi, a leader in the pro-democracy movement in Burma. Despite winning multiple elections by landslide, Aung San Suu Kyi has spent years under house arrest.

Aung San Suu Kyi’s father was a big time leader in Burma, putting together their modern military and negotiating their independence from Britain back in the 40s.

After studying abroad, Aung San Suu Kyi returned to Burma in 1988 with her husband, and got involved in the democracy movement. Early pro-democracy demonstrations were put down violently by the military, but Aung San Suu Kyi’s peaceful, non-violent approach inspired many in her country, though as far as I can tell (I live in a hole in the ground and don’t know… stuff) there is no real democracy in Burma.

Aung San Suu Kyi has spent many years under house arrest, though she won a Nobel Peace Prize in 1991. Of the last twenty years she has spent 15 under house arrest.

The Lady

Luc Besson is directing The Lady, with the screenplay written by Rebecca Frayn. Frayn doesn’t have a lot of experience, and Besson isn’t really known for respectful films. I’m not saying his movies are bad, in fact I quite like The Fifth Element and Taken was entertaining, but this is the guy who wrote The Transporter. Not exactly a quality historical drama about freedom and democracy.

The Lady Trailer

The Lady Release Date

Limited release on February 17, 2012.

Pictures

Who’s In It?

 Michelle Yeoh … Aung San Suu Kyi
  David Thewlis … Michael Aris
  Jonathan Raggett … Kim Aris
  Jonathan Woodhouse … Alexander Aris
  Susan Wooldridge … Lucinda Philips
  Benedict Wong … Karma Phuntsho

What’s Good About It?

Aung San Suu Kyi’s story is certainly compelling, though I think this is a bit early.

What’s Bad About It?

I’m pretty sure Burma hasn’t turned into a nice place to live. This more like “Hey! This lady is amazing, and she has a wonderful spirit that has inspired a number of people, but it didn’t fix Burma.”

Our Clever Prediction

The Lady wasn’t released before the end of 2011, meaning the studio didn’t think it had a chance at an Oscar. This type of movie is made specifically FOR the awards. I doubt The Lady is any good. Sorry.