Best Director of Photography (AIFFA: 2019) Best Director of Photography (Star Awards: 2019) Best Narrative Feature (Dili International Film Festival: 2021) Hornorary Tribute Award (Oldenburg International Film Festival: 2024)
Na Gyi (Burmese: ဏကြီး; born May 2, 1981) is a Burmese film director, known for his works, Mi (2018) and What Happened to the Wolf? (2021). He has gained significant recognition within the Burmese film industry and has also made a mark on the international film scene.[1][2] He is considered a promising and prominent filmmaker in Myanmar Cinema.
Early life and education
Na Gyi was born in Yangon, Myanmar on 2 May 1981. He passed matriculation from BEHS (1), Dagon in 1998. During the study of engineering at Yangon Technology University, he left for London for further study. He studied Digital Filmmaking at Raindance, London. Na Gyi married Paing Phyo Thu, the lead actress[3] from his debut film, Mi on January 1, 2019.
Career
Na Gyi's career took off when his first feature film, Mi[4] was screened across the country in Myanmar. The film was an adaptation of the novel, "Mi" by prominent and well-respected novelist, Kyi Aye.[5] Although expectations were high, the film was well received by the audience. There were harsh public criticisms at Myanmar Academy Awards (2018) for leaving Mi with no award.[6]
Na Gyi has been a advocate for the implementation of the Rating System in Myanmar, challenging the country's strict censorship laws. This initiative, known as the "Rating System Now" campaign, aimed to promote creative freedom and artistic expression within the Burmese film industry. The campaign gained significant support from the Burmese film industry, with many artists and filmmakers rallying behind the cause.[14]
Na Gyi founded Artist's Shelter in Mae Sot, Thailand to help and support Myanmar artists in exile in August, 2023.[15] Recognizing the urgent need for a safe space for artists displaced by the political turmoil, Na Gyi established the organization to provide support, resources, and opportunities for creative expression to Myanmar artists in exile. Artist's Shelter provides a safe and supportive environment, enabling artists to continue their work, and advocates for freedom of expression.[16]
