“This Prison Where I Live” is a film that reveals not only the inspiring nature of a comedian who dares to joke in the face of brutal tyranny, but also the cerebral struggle of the suffering but still smiling people of Burma. And the crucial documentary is an important step towards ensuring that the world will not forget the imprisoned Zarganar or his oppressed fans.
British filmmaker Rex Bloomstein recently helped Zarganar reach a wider audience by featuring the Burmse comedian in his new documentary, “This Prison Where I Live,” that just screened in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand.
The result is a documentary that provides unique insight into the Burmese entertainer's thoughts and feelings and tells the story of his arrest and imprisonment, including his ordeal of torture and five years of solitary confinement. “I wanted the world to experience his humility, his identification with the ordinary people of Burma and his fearless opposition to the generals,” Bloomstein said in a statement. “I also wanted people to hear his response to the years of persecution he had suffered at their hands, when he turned to me on camera and said, ‘My enemy must be my friend.’”
In the film, Zarganar revealed why he chose to be a comedian. “A dentist can open a person’s mouth,” he said. “But the comedian can gape everyone’s.”
Despite incurring the wrath of the regime and being oppressed for virtually his entire career, Zarganar said he has never regretted using humor to criticize the ruling authorities.
“Zarganar is an example of courage, humanity and creativity,” said Mittermeier, who was impressed by his fellow comedian's willingness to risk his own life by using his humor and satire to stand up for humanity and democracy.
“This Prison Where I Live” is a moving and stimulating film not only because of the story it tells, but also because of the perspective it offers on the role that humor can play in the fight for humanity and democracy against a ruthless authoritarian regime. The film demonstrates that Zarganar's jokes and satire are not only his artistic vocation, they are also a serious weapon against oppression.