Brick Mule
1h 5m
This observational anthrozoological ethnographic film documents the lives of Nepal's working mules. The film finds a closeness with the mules; their sale in India, their journey to Nepal and their work in the huge brick factories of the Kathmandu valley and portering goods into the high Himalayas. Stunning cinematography and a crafted soundscape paint a moving portrait of Nepal's brick mules and the people who make their living with them. Honest, but non-judgemental, the film gives a unique insight into hardship of life for people and equines alike. Yet underlying questions about humanity and our relationship with animals underpin the film.
Directed by Michael Brown
Dr Michael Brown is an ethnographic and participatory filmmaker and academic. He has taught in a range of UK Higher Education institutions and at Kathmandu University in Nepal where he lived for five years working in participatory development communication. Michael founded Marginal Voices as an organisation supporting marginalised and disadvantaged communities to have a stronger voice in the discussion of issues that directly affect them. Animals and the environment are included in the 'marginalised'.