What's Happening?
International sales company Lights On has secured world rights to 'Becoming Human,' a debut feature by Cambodian director Polen Ly. The film is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival. 'Becoming Human' is a supernatural drama that follows Thida, a ghost who protects a cinema in Battambang, Cambodia. As the cinema faces demolition, Thida must choose between moving on to her next life or staying on Earth due to her bond with a mortal named Hai. The film explores themes of spiritual transition amid Cambodia's evolving social and economic landscape. The cast includes Savorn Serak, a 15-year-old classical dancer, and Piseth Chhun, a Venice award winner. The production team features Daniel Mattes from Cambodia's Anti-Archive, with contributions from producers across Cambodia, Belgium, and Singapore. The film is notable for being the first Cambodian production in the Venice Biennale's College-Cinema program, which supports emerging filmmakers with workshops and funding.
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Why It's Important?
'Becoming Human' marks a significant milestone for Cambodian cinema, being the first film from the country to participate in the Venice Biennale's College-Cinema development program. This initiative, supported by Italy's Ministry of Culture and Chanel, provides funding and mentorship to emerging filmmakers. The film's inclusion in the Venice Film Festival highlights the growing recognition of Cambodian cinema on the international stage. It also reflects the broader cultural and economic changes occurring in Cambodia, as depicted in the film's narrative. The acquisition by Lights On, a company known for promoting independent cinema, suggests potential for wider distribution and audience engagement, further elevating Cambodia's presence in global film markets.
What's Next?
Following its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, 'Becoming Human' will be launched for international sales across various territories and platforms. The collaboration between Lights On and Anti-Archive is expected to facilitate the film's distribution to festivals, cinemas, and streaming platforms worldwide. This could lead to increased visibility for Cambodian filmmakers and stories, potentially opening doors for future projects and collaborations. The film's reception at Venice will likely influence its distribution strategy and success in international markets.
Beyond the Headlines
The film's exploration of spiritual themes against a backdrop of socio-economic change in Cambodia offers a unique cultural perspective that may resonate with global audiences. It highlights the intersection of tradition and modernity, a theme relevant to many societies undergoing rapid transformation. The involvement of young talent like Savorn Serak and established actors like Piseth Chhun showcases the diversity and potential of Cambodian cinema. Additionally, the film's participation in the Venice Biennale's College-Cinema program underscores the importance of international support in nurturing emerging filmmakers from underrepresented regions.
