The Sound of Gunfire from the Plain of Jars

(Siengpeun Chank Thonghai)

by Somchit Phonsena et Pham Ky Nam

Laos

Directors: Somchit Phonsena, Pham Ky Nam

Cinematographer: Bounsi Amnouayphone, Moupheng Seng Soulivanh, Boun Bantia

Sound: Thongsavath Labounsan, Thavisak Sonsoulin

Music: Sounan Souvannavong

Cast: Khamphay Khamvongsa, Sokhith Saygnakoumman, Nang Khamseng Deuan, Noy Nouathgnam

Production: Département du Cinéma Ministère de l'Information et de la Culture

Year: 1983

DVD, Black and White, 81 min,
v.o. Laotian, Electronic Subtitles 

International Premiere

“The Sound of Gunfire from the Plain of Jars” is a fictional recount about the escape of Pathet Lao unit surrounded by Royal Lao Government forces in 1958 in the plain of Jars. This movie was the first fiction feature made since Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s foundation in 1975. Thought as propaganda, the movie has been banned shortly after its release because of the representation of an alcoholic military officer and resisting ethnic tribes. The movie’s screening at our 21st FICA Vesoul’s edition might be called a truly exceptional Worldwide Premiere 30 years after movie’s unique release.