YOUTH, LOVE AND HEARTACHE
SMALLTIME SHORT STORIES GET BIG SCREEN TREATMENT WITH ‘LOST IN BLUE’
In Bangkok, when you’re down for a movie, it’s rare to have the opportunity to see short films by emerging Thai filmmakers — about as rare as it is for these types of films to be screened in a theatre as popular as SFX. This is exactly why Lost In Blue is important. Lost In Blue is a collection of three short films by young Thai visionaries playing in theatres now. Last year, we interviewed one of the filmmakers, Paphawee Jinnasith, for her short Glowstick, which is also showing in this event. This year, we wanted to get to know another featured filmmaker. Guru talks to 24-year-old Aekaphong Saransate about the movie event and his film Fon.
What is Fon about?
Fon is a story about two adolescents who have just started a relationship at an age considered to be inappropriate by the people around them. The young couple decide to see each other in secret, against the peaceful backdrop of the beach, and their relationship is like a wave — volatile, with hints of uncertainty and destruction.
What is the significance of this film to you?
Fon is actually the first proper film I have ever made. I dabbled in film here and there before, but nothing as serious. I was so into making this film, I remember sitting myself down and contemplating, “What do I consider a good film? What is a film anyway?” Looking back on it now, it’s funny to me how deeply immersed I was.
Who did you make this film for?
I made this film for friends who have had similar experiences as me. I want my film to be able to speak for others out there, as a film is a means of expression. I tried to tell the story in a way that didn’t take sides. Ultimately, the audience can conclude what they want after watching the film, whether there’s a definite wrongdoer and victim or not. However, what’s certain for me is that this is my chance to speak for myself and others like me.
What themes can the audience expect from the film?
As mentioned, it’s a film about a love that brews between two kids in a small town. So, there’s going to be some nostalgia, remnants of pain from the past, a story about children’s relationship with their parents and, of course, first love.
Is there any particular part of the film or a point while making the film that is your favourite?
To be honest, I love every part of it. Every bit is filled with significant memories. So instead, I’ll share with you a lesson that I learned from the experience. The film you have in mind at the start and the film that comes out in the end is not the same at all. It is constantly changing and improving. It has a mind of its own. Underneath it all is a production team where everyone puts their heads together for the film until the very end. This is the signature of any student-made film: everyone comes to work with their hearts.
How do you feel about your work being screened at SFX?
It’s already way beyond my expectations. As the compiler of the three films as well, watching the final credits roll gave me goosebumps. I am so grateful for everyone whose names will be on the screen, and I’m glad to be returning the favour by taking this film as far as I can.
What does the name of this film series, Lost In Blue, mean to you?
It’s a state of being immersed in your sorrows. Blue can also be an allusion to water. All three films feature water as a catalyst for characters to remember something significant.
What are you up to now, and what projects do you have in store for us in the near future?
I now write a series for Nadao (production house). I’m giving mainstream a go because I feel like it’s a good foundation to have before going off and doing more innovative things. The first piece I’ve created since Fon is Let Me Grow, a reality/documentary series about kids who are addicted to gaming. As for personal projects, I’d like to send something to a film fest eventually, but I’m still in the thinking stage, so don’t keep tabs on me. Meanwhile, there are tonnes of film students graduating each year. Look there for now. Catch Aek’s first film Fon, as well as That day of the month by Jirassaya Wongsutin and Glowstick by Paphawee Jinnasith, under the collective title Lost In Blue at SFX. Visit www.sfcinemacity.com.