I am writing because it would be great to enlist your support for the upcoming release of Burma VJ, which will be launched in 40 cinemas nationwide next Tuesday.

Burma VJ is one of the most powerful films you are likely to see this year. Going beyond the occasional news clip from Burma, the acclaimed filmmaker, Anders Østergaard, brings us close to Burma’s video journalists who insist on keeping up the flow of news from their closed country despite risking torture and life in jail.  Armed with small handycams they make their undercover reportages, smuggle the material out of the country, have it broadcast back into Burma via satellite and offered as free usage for international media.

On Tuesday 14 July, The Co-operative, in association with Dogwoof, will be hosting the nationwide Saffron Premiere of Burma VJ. Forty cinemas across the country, including one near you, will be linked live to BAFTA in London, where the evening will kick off with an introduction from Vivienne Westwood before a screening of the film, to be followed by a panel discussion including the filmmaker and the main undercover Burmese VJ from the film. Find the closest participating cinema to you here.

Essential for anyone who values truth ***** Empire

Unmissable. As gripping as any Hollywood blockbuster ***** Daily Mirror

One of this year’s most inspirational films Dazed and Confused

Vital, courageous and utterly compelling – a film that demands to be seen GQ

Action-packed, thrilling and suspenseful The Independent

For more information, and to find out how to support the film and the issues raised, please visit www.burmavjmovie.com