Status: Post Production
Burmese, English
Feature Documentary
Co-Production Countries:
Canada, UK
Directed By
Dwight Jantzi, Brian Dickie, Rob Mentov
Production Companies:
Nocte Films, Rugio Productions, Lightwood Green
Genre
Narrative Documentary
Comparables
Look of Silence, Heavyweight, Restrepo
Myanmar is engulfed in a civil war, a brutal conflict mostly hidden from the world’s gaze. Severed from the internet, hostilities unfold without international support and devoid of scrutiny. Yet, amidst the isolation, fearless citizens – once YouTubers, tour guides, and teachers – endure in armed resistance. With unwavering conviction in democracy they prepare, deep in the jungle, to face better equipped government forces. In their own words, at the final stop before a ruthless frontline, they reflect on their powerful, untold journey.
Since gaining independence in 1947 Myanmar has experienced three military coups, the latest in February 2021. In the aftermath, tens of thousands fled to border regions joining the fight against the oppressive central government. This grassroots, civilian-led army known as the People’s Defence Force has, for the first time in Myanmar’s history, spanned ethnic, religious, and gender divides with one common goal; to oust the military dictatorship and restore democracy.
The conflict in Myanmar is rapidly evolving and holds global intrigue, yet the country remains largely cut off from the internet. The fragmented headlines often depersonalize the struggle, reducing the resonance and impact of its cautionary tale. The world, supposedly aligned behind this fight for self-determination, remains largely unaware of the individual lives at its core.
In 2021 a group of filmmakers, who have been covering Myanmar for over 12 years, traveled to a PDF training camp “White Tiger Column.” There, they conducted extensive interviews capturing stories of courage, sacrifice and resilience. By late 2023, they returned to capture over 100 hours of footage, and more than 100 unique portraits while embedded within the camp, showcasing the remarkable transformation of ordinary citizens. From the urbane lives of parenthood, office work, and academia, to become revolutionary infantrymen, drill sergeants, and bomb manufacturers – all in the name of democracy.
The Filmmakers
Nocte Films
Nocte is a Toronto-based collective of directors, writers and producers. Their short and documentary films have been distributed on Nowness, CBC, Videographe, Director’s Notes and premiered at VIFF, DOXA, Rhode Island and Festival du Nouveau Cinema.
White Tiger Column was co-produced with Rugio Productions whose team have covered Myanmar and its various armed conflicts for over 12 years, forming deep bonds with the individuals featured. This has afforded unparalleled access and removed many of the traditional barriers associated with the introduction of cameras and crews.
Technical Specs
- Digital 4K, Colour 1.85:1
- Subtitles – English
Rights Information
- Completion: 2026
- Sales Inquiries to: Tom Edgerton (tom@lightwoodgreen.com
- Festival Inquiries to: Luke Brawley (luke@indoxfilms.com)
Lightwood Green 