MYSTIC BALL

Devastation. Isolation. Hunger. Fear. This is the living reality of Burmese people following the massive cyclone Nargis in early May, compounded by severely limited access to aid due to the appalling lack of willingness on the part of the regime to open the country up to foreign relief. The outright refusal by Burma's isolationist junta to give visas to relief workers is unprecedented in modern humanitarian relief efforts. The destruction has really been transformed into a military-made catastrophe.

WE can do something to help. Mark your calendars for a special screening of Mystic Ball, an uplifting documentary about one Canadian man's physical and spiritual quest as he learns the art of Chinlone, the traditional sport of Myanmar (Burma).

Date: Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Times: 7pm and 9:30pm screenings with reception in between.
Reception will include Burmese food and drinks.
Cost: $20 for film and reception or $10 for later film only

Purchase tickets in advance at or rush tickets for later film at 9:15pm.
Film Information Hotline: 604-683-FILM (3456); Email: viff@viff.org

Free Kick is the official media sponsor of this event. Free Kick is a free soccer magazine. Its mission is to serve the players, fans, parents and coaches who want information and support for 'the Beautiful Game.' It is published quarterly and distributed in Vancouver and Toronto. Please visit: http://www.freekickmag.com/

About the Film:
Mystic Ball follows Canadian filmmaker Greg Hamilton deep into the ancient and little-known culture of Myanmar and its traditional sport, Chinlone. Like the film, Chinlone is hard to define. It's a team sport without an opposing team. It is also part dance, part meditation. There is no competition, no winners and no losers. The game is back-breakingly difficult, yet is played by almost all Burmese, from young children to octogenarians.

The film tracks Greg's transformation from an outsider obsessed with learning Chinlone to accomplished teammate of the masters of the game. But sport is only one aspect of his journey. Through Chinlone, Greg discovers things he didn't even realize he was looking for: family, community and love.

Mystic Ball's stunning cinematography and inspiring story will give you a sense of the mystical, and encourage a closer look at your own journey.www.mysticball-themovie.com

*All proceeds will go to directly benefit the victims of the cyclone through the contacts director Greg Hamilton has made among the Chinlone community in Myanmar. Unfortunately, Greg has yet to hear from his friends in Myanmar. We will keep you informed of their well-being on the Free Kick magazine website at freekickmag.com

Please invite your friends and networks to join us on this very special evening!For more information, please contact Lindsay Marsh at waystosavetheworld@yahoo.ca