Asia's Monarchies
Journey to the heart of these beautiful lands to understand the relationship between the people and their monarchs. To many, their monarchy is an anachronism - an institution that hampers progression. To others it is the heart and soul of their nation, part of their shared history and a guard against the dangers of modernity.
- 2010-2018
- 1 season
- Documentary
Journey to the heart of these beautiful lands to understand the relationship between the people and their monarchs. To many, their monarchy is an anachronism - an institution that hampers progression. To others it is the heart and soul of their nation, part of their shared history and a guard against the dangers of modernity.
Season 1 Episode Guide
5 Episodes 2010 - 2018
Episode 1
'Banzai Tenno': Long Live The Emperor
Sat, Dec 11, 2010 60 mins
The Japanese Imperial family is the oldest hereditary monarchy in the world, dating back to the 6th century BC. However, its central role in Japan has not shielded the family from controversy in recent years. Through personal scandals, and vagaries of the hereditary system, even to their own biology, it's been a rocky time. But what is left if every tradition is changeable?
Episode 2
Fall of the House of Shah
Sat, Jan 1, 2011 60 mins
After over a decade of civil war, Nepal's monarchy was ousted from power and the new constitutional assembly formed a peace deal with Maoist guerrillas. The transformation begs the question of what will happen next in this kingdom turned secular republic.
Episode 3
Land of the Thunder Dragon
Sat, Dec 15, 2018 60 mins
This remote Himalayan country is in the throes of a noble experiment. The ruling monarch has initiated a move towards Democracy, but this tiny country is challenged by encroaching influences as it tries to maintain autonomy and a sense of nationality.
Episode 4
In the Shadows of Angkor
Sat, Dec 18, 2010 60 mins
Unlike most, Cambodia's monarchy is not hereditary, the next monarch is chosen by the National Assembly from a pool of eligible candidates. When Sihamoni, a ballet dancer, was chosen, what sort of monarch were they hoping to crown?
Episode 5
The Last Absolute Monarch
Sat, Jan 1, 2011 60 mins
Financial problems have beset the royal house, despite huge oil resources making Brunei one of the richest countries in the world. The sultan has reigned for nearly four decades and faces the decision to move toward a partial democracy.