We’ve just been alerted to the existence of a relatively new documentary film called “Buffalo Girls” that tells the stories of two 8-year-old girl Muay Thai fighters in rural Thailand.
And it looks good. Like real good. Check out the trailer here:
Buffalo Girls – Theatrical Trailer from Buffalogirlsthemovie on Vimeo.
“Buffalo Girls” follows the two young female fighters, Stam and Pet, as they train and fight, with large sums wagered upon their bouts by their own families.
The film, directed by Todd Kellstein, premiered at the 2012 Slamdance Film Festival and since earned rave reviews, but has had trouble finding a wider audience.
Famed critic Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times called it “unexpected and fascinating,” while the Wall Street Journal’s Steve Dollar said “the blood sweat and tears are as real as it gets.”
Let’s hope we can get this screened in Bangkok!
From the film’s Vimeo page:
Set in small villages throughout rural Thailand, the film chronicles these young girls’ journey, one that is alternately empowering and heartbreaking, as they fight in small neighborhood arenas in order to win prize-money to help provide for their families. After many months of rigorous training and a grueling schedule of fights, Stam and Pet must ultimately fight each other for the 20 Kilo championship belt of Thailand. The cash prize that goes with it will change the winner’s life forever. Is it exploitation, empowerment or economic necessity?
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