"What Happened to the Wolf?" is a poignant drama from Myanmar that explores the connection between two terminally ill women who find solace in each other's presence. This heartfelt film, written and directed by Na Gyi, captures a tender melodrama amidst a backdrop of persecution faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in Myanmar. While it may appear conventional and sentimental to Western viewers accustomed to more openly queer cinema, its significance is undeniably radical and courageous within the Myanmar context, where LGBTQ+ people endure legal persecution, imprisonment, and state-sanctioned violence.
However, the film's production is marked by a horrifying reality. Created before the military coup in February 2021, both the director, Na Gyi, and Paing Phyoe Thu, one of the main actors and Na Gyi's spouse, have been forced into hiding after being accused of using their influence to oppose the coup. Additionally, little is known about the fate of Eaindra Kyaw Zin, the film's other main actor, who was arrested and imprisoned during that period. If "What Happened to the Wolf?" can find exposure on the festival circuit, particularly in events focused on human rights, it could help draw attention to the ongoing plight of those oppressed and endangered in this troubled Asian nation, which has unfortunately slipped out of the Western headlines in recent times.
The story revolves around Moe (Paing Phyoe Thu), the daughter of a wealthy family who has built her own successful business. Devastated by a terminal lung cancer diagnosis, Moe's life takes a drastic turn as she attempts suicide but is saved by her husband, Ye Moe (Eaindra Kyaw Zin), who rushes her to the hospital. It is there that she encounters Way Way (Paing Phyoe Thu), a young woman with a congenital heart condition. Way Way, a rebellious spirit with a love for rock music, seems unfazed by her impending death and often clashes with her caring but burdened brother, Min Han (Kyaw Htet Aung).
As both women's health deteriorates, Moe takes steps to ensure her husband inherits her business instead of her despised father, whose reasons for her disdain are revealed later in the film. However, in order to secure Ye Moe's future, Moe must first divorce him, a narrative point that intertwines with Way Way's cruel behavior towards her devoted brother. These plotlines ultimately pave the way for the film's final act, in which the two women embark on a road trip to visit a famous local beauty spot known as the Sea of Clouds. It is in the closing moments of the film that they share a passionate kiss, a brave expression of love that puts the filmmakers' lives at risk even before the February coup.
The cinematography of "What Happened to the Wolf?" is appropriately captivating, featuring airy compositions and negative spaces bathed in warm sunshine. The chemistry between the two lead actors is palpable, as they deliver nuanced and committed performances, despite the script occasionally veering into melodramatic territory.
"What Happened to the Wolf?" serves as a testament to the power of love and connection in the face of persecution. Its portrayal of a blossoming relationship between two terminally ill women defies societal norms and challenges the oppressive environment in Myanmar. This film not only showcases the talent and resilience of its creators but also sheds light on the ongoing struggle for human rights in a country that deserves global attention and support.
What Happened to the Wolf? - info
- Release date: September 16, 2021
- Genre: Drama, LGBTQ
- Director: Na Gyi
- Music by: Myint Than Htun
- Writer: Na Gyi
- Stars: Paing Phyo Thu, Eaindra Kyaw Zin, Lwin Moe, Kyaw Htet Aung
Award
CinemAsia Film Festival
2023 Nominee Jury Award Best Film - Na Gyi
Oldenburg Film Festival
2021 Winner Seymour Cassel Award: Outstanding Performance by an Actress - Eaindra Kyaw Zin
2021 Nominee German Independence Award: Audience Award Best Film - Na Gyi
Dili International Film Festival
2021 Winner Festival Prize: Best Narrative Feature - Na Gyi