“The Heart of Teacher” (Nuan Saeng), the second Lao film of 2024, fresh out of the theaters, the movie is soon to be released on online platforms. Stay tuned for updates on the official LaoFilm page.
Directed by Somphong Phondy, this new film draws inspiration from the literary work “Teacher Nuan Saeng” by Lao author Suvanda Chansuaivanpheng, reimagining the narrative to resonate with modern viewers.
The story follows Nuan Saeng, a kind-hearted recent graduate who begins her teaching journey in Xieng Khouang Province. Her character embodies determination and compassion as she faces the myriad challenges of educating children in a region marked by socio-economic struggles and the lingering threat of unexploded ordnance.
“Teacher shortage is serious in rural areas, our production team wants to spread the importance of education by representing through the character Nuan Saeng as a resilient and brave teacher that dedicates herself for students,” Director Somphong said. “This could be a slight inspiration for all teachers or whoever that loved this job to realize their valuable role that it could be in any aspect even in the countryside.”
As Nuan Saeng navigated her new role, she confronted not only the academic challenges faced by her students but also the dangers posed by unexploded bombs in the region. A risk that many children in rural areas face daily.
Somphong’s vision for the film aligns with the Lao government’s commitment to enhancing educational opportunities. With support from the government, the project aims to raise awareness of the vital role education plays in fostering resilience and growth within communities.
However, filming presented its own set of challenges, particularly during the rainy season. Somphong noted that harsh weather conditions complicated the shooting schedule, while working with local background actors—students and villagers—added an extra layer of complexity to production.
Another challenge involved coordinating with background actors, who were local students and villagers. This made the process more difficult and time-consuming compared to working with professional actors.
Leading the cast is Vilayvanh ‘Touny’ Komphengmy, who portrays Nuan Saeng. With a degree in Community and Rural Development, Touny feels a deep connection to her character and the cause of improving villagers’ lives. Joining her is Monick ‘Nick’ Seesouphan as Bounthavy, the village guard who supports Nuan Saeng in overcoming obstacles.
“I want to reflect the genuine lifestyle of Lao people in rural areas, capturing moments like children playing at school or fishing by the river,” Somphong shared. “We should celebrate the unique charms of Laos without trying to copy other countries, and be proud of what we have”
“The Heart of Teacher” not only pays tribute to the teaching profession but also serves as an inspiration for educators across the nation. By showcasing the struggles and triumphs of teachers like Nuan Saeng, the film highlights the key role they play in shaping the future of Laos.
