While filming their documentary Bomb Harvest in Laos, director Kim Morduant and producer Sylvia Wilczynski were struck by the desperate living conditions of children living in areas affected by heavy US bombing during the Vietnam War. So, they began a film project to tackle the issue, which later becomes The Rocket. The film stars Sitthiphon Disamoe, Loungnam Kaosainam and Thai comedian Suthep Po-ngam. As Australia’s official submission to the Oscars 2014 for best foreign language film, it transports you to the unfamiliar landscape beside the Mekong. The film’s focus isn’t opium money and AK-47s, though, but poverty and antiquated local beliefs.
Cheeky, cunning boy Ahlo (Disamoe) grows up in a rural community with his parents and grandmother who have superstitiously branded him a jinx since he was born. When a big dam project is announced, villagers are forced to move to allocated housing where they’re promised a better life. During the relocation trip, Ahlo comes to the harsh realization that he may indeed be a jinx when his persistence causes a boat accident that tragically kills his mother. Grieving, they make it to their new home which proves to be far from the promised land. Here, Ahlo befriends little girl Kia (Kaosainam) and her kooky drunkard uncle Purple (Po-ngam), an ex-military man and James Brown impersonator. After he runs around causing all sorts of chaos, Ahlo, his family and his new friends are all banished from the community. Settling into yet another home, they come across a sky rocket competition offering a big prize which Ahlo thinks may change the course of their lives.
Along this journey, the focus turns to issues of family, outdates traditions, poverty and puppy love. With The Rocket, Kim Morduant does not break a new ground—in fact, it’s a rather formulaic story. But through its intriguing context and deft character development, the film stands head and shoulders above many other underdog hero flicks. Though they are far from exceptional, the characters will resonate with you.
Fans of comedian Suthep Pongam will be happy see him at his endearing best, not having to act wise, rude or stupid, as many local films require. His role as the colorful character Purple, a man of unwitting wisdom, is the most convincing we have seen from Suthep in years. But it’s Ahlo’s combination of innocence, bravery and vulnerability that really engages. You can’t help but will him on in his crusade to overcome his wretched luck in the eyes of a delusory society headed by his grandma and father.
Cynics will be quick to point out the film’s gimmickry, but with its strong core values and neat cinematography, The Rocket delivers a simple tale to heartwarming effect.
