November 3rd, 7:00PM in Garland 104 (2441 E. Hartford)
There is something about Thai cinema that seems always to give the impression of a strange quiet, a mellow atmosphere in which things happen almost by themselves. This is no doubt as much a cultural bias as it is a statement of the tone and style of Thai cinema. But even so, the relaxing qualities make a film like Mekong Full Moon Party particularly enjoyable.
The plot involves an annual festival during which strange lights emerge from the water. This phenomenon has made a tiny village into a major tourist destination. Now a young man returns to the village and is faced with a decision regarding the lights and the future of the festival.
Besides sweeping the Thailand National Film Association Awards, the film has enjoyed a moderate level of international attention. Coming at a time when Thai cinema was increasing in both funding and scope, this film is almost a throwback to a time before. The tone is almost that of a documentary film, minimal artifice and character driven.
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Thailand, Director Jira Maligool, Cast Anuchyd Sapanphong, Noppadol Duangporn, Boonchai Limathibul and Somlek Sakdikul, 119 minutes, in Thai with English subtitles
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