The Eyes of Thailand

The Eyes of Thailand, a fascinating documentary presented in 2012, provides an in-depth revelation on an overlooked casualty of war - the elephants of Thailand. Directed by Tim Gorski and produced by Windy Borman, the film features renowned personalities like Lynn Bradach, Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert, and Pipope Chokathana. These individuals bring life into the movie as they artfully portray the intense narrative with their compelling enactments.

The primary protagonist of the film is Sangduen 'Lek' Chailert, an internationally recognized champion improving elephants' lives in her native Thailand. Fondly referred to as the "the elephant whisperer," Lek's selflessness and the mission to rescue wounded elephants drive the narrative's backbone. Simultaneously, Narrator Lynn Bradach effectively presents this emotionally moving narrative to the audience. Bradach, a mother of a deceased American soldier who served in Thailand, extraordinarily conveys the unfolding real-life drama.

The documentary begins with a focus on Asian elephants, which, for centuries, have been central to Thai culture and economy. However, the gorgeous creatures' fate experienced a drastic downturn following World Wars I and II as land mines were scattered across the Thailand-Cambodia border. The prevalence of these hidden, forgotten remnants of war have led to countless undocuмented animal casualties over the years, including many elephants, primarily responsible for local transportation and heavy lifting tasks.

In this context, the impeccable character of Lek Chailert is introduced, who dedicated her life to providing shelter and care for these abused elephants. Having founded the Thai Elephant Conservation Center, Lek has always passionately endeavored to change the local working conditions for the elephants while providing sanctuary for those already afflicted. The film closely follows her effort to heal and rehabilitate two elephant landmine survivors, Motala and Baby Mosha.

The Eyes of Thailand then takes a transformative turn. On receiving a letter from Soraida Salwala, the founder of Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital, Lek learns about the wounded elephants. Deeply touched by these individual elephants' stories, Lek decides to initiate a project aiming at creating prosthetic limbs for Motala and Baby Mosha, both victims of brutal landmine accidents.

Meanwhile, in Portland, we are introduced to Pipope Chokathana, an orthopedic surgeon for a major sports team. Upon discovering the incredible story of Lek and the elephants, Pipope agrees to help build a prosthetic leg for Motala. These events collectively highlight human empathy as different people from various professions across the globe unite to save the elephants.

Throughout the feature, the film manages to give a comprehensive account of the plight of these majestic creatures affected by human conflicts. It explores the price paid by innocent lives amidst, and long after, war periods. However, it also amplifies the voice of optimism and sheer resilience of the human spirit, pointing out that change, warmth, and compassion are universal.

The Eyes of Thailand symbolizes Lek's courage, fortitude, and relentless pursuit of creating a better world for elephants. At the same time, it signifies Baby Mosha's and Motala's determination to live and thrive despite tragic accidents. This co-existence of hope and despair forms an impactful part of the narrative, prompting viewers to introspect and participate in the larger conversation concerning animal rights and humanitarian services.

The film is a powerful mix of raw emotions, ranging from the heart-wrenching plight of the elephants to the remarkable kindness of those who strive to make a difference in their lives. It is not just a documentary about elephants; it's also a study of human character, showcasing the innate ability to empathize, act, and redefine boundaries for a cause beyond self.

Splendid cinematography, poignant storytelling, and highly empathetic characters converge in The Eyes of Thailand to engage audiences in an emotional journey spanning ten years. It presents a heartwarming tale of endurance, resilience, and the unparalleled power of compassion in overcoming adversity, making the movie a must-watch for animal lovers, environmentalists, and anyone intrigued by stories of profound human resilience in facing life's severe trials.