Educational Media Reviews Online

The Maldives is a small island state in the Indian Ocean where thousands of people live in tiny island atolls spread over nine hundred kilometers. The country is considered to be a paradise on earth and it is a popular tourist destination. The Maldives was devastated by the 2004 tsunami, and this film shows how the country is recovering from this environmental disaster. It also discusses the economic, social and political impact of the tsunami based on interviews with locals, government officials and people working for aid agencies.

Although the death toll in the Maldives was very low when compared to other tsunami affected countries, the damage to the overall economy of the country was considered to be greater. According to government officials, the tsunami dealt a huge blow to tourism which is the mainstay of the country’s economy. However, the film indicates that months after the tsunami there were no signs of devastation in the resort areas due to rapid reconstruction. Not only had there been a rebound in tourism, there were also plans for further expansion of resort areas in the following year.

The film draws attention to the sociological impact of the tsunami, as it takes the viewers to areas where people in the islands affected by the tsunami are temporarily relocated while damaged and destroyed houses are repaired or rebuilt. While people question the delays in the reconstruction process, government officials and those working for aid agencies are grappling with the reality of the situation where reconstruction is being delayed mainly due to geographical reasons. The film highlights the need for greater communication and the importance of keeping people informed of what is being done. It also highlights psychological issues faced by the people and the resulting effect on communities.

The film also brings to light the changing political situation in the country. The rebuilding process has opened up new opportunities for local groups to get involved in community building. An unforeseen impact of the tsunami was the change in political awareness of the people. According to the film, not only have they started to think in new ways, they are also becoming more aware of their rights indicating the need for political change leading to democracy, decentralization and greater community involvement in the country’s future development.

This film can be recommended for junior high through adult audiences. It is very well done with very clear narrative and breathtaking views of the beautiful country of Maldives.