MuLa is a member of the Kayan people, an ethnic minority in Burma. She fled from the Junta into Thailand, where she lives in poverty with her husband and two sons. Sometimes they telephone their daughter, whom they had to leave behind in Burma. “I hope I will see her before I die.” MuLa is seriously ill. Many of the scenes shot in gloom and darkness depict the uncertainty of waiting, which also determines the rhythm of the film. MuLa endures her painful fate, and even as an exotic tourist attraction – decorated with the neck rings typical of Kayan women – she never loses her dignity.

Kiedy będę ptakiem / When I am a bird
Production: Poland 2013

MuLa lives in a Thai village by the Burmese border. She is from the Kajan people and her neck is adorned with characteristic gold neck rings. Her life has not been easy as she had to leave her native Burma and seek refuge in Thailand while her only daughter stayed home. MuLa makes her living selling souvenirs to tourists but the family’s financial situation is very difficult. Monika Pawluczuk’s documentary captures the woman’s struggle with her depressing fate and her unquenchable longing for a better life.