Aug. 25, 2023

Top Films Coming to Asian Cinemas

In the vibrant tapestry of Asian cinema, a new wave of cinematic marvels is set to grace the silver screens, captivating audiences with their diverse stories and creative ingenuity. From the rich heartlands of Japan to the tranquil landscapes of Thailand, these upcoming films bring together a fusion of cultures and perspectives that promise an enthralling cinematic experience. By: Syahmi Zulqarnain

Japanese Film – How Do You Live

How Do You Live? (Japanese: 君たちはどう生きるか, Kimi-tachi wa Dō Ikiru ka), alternatively known as The Boy and the Heron, stands as one of the most eagerly awaited Japanese cinematic offerings in 2023. Directed by the legendary anime master Hayao Miyazaki, the film is produced by Studio Ghibli, renowned for its unparalleled contributions to the world of animation.

While specific production costs remain undisclosed, the film's creation has been characterized by meticulous attention to detail, a hallmark of Studio Ghibli's craftsmanship. For example, despite the increasing presence of digital technology, the creative team has decided to employ hand-drawn animation, a labour-intensive process emblematic of Miyazaki's dedication to artistic integrity. Miyazaki has also revealed in an earlier interview that storyboarding for the film began as early as July 2016. The endeavour is a remarkable one, and marks the first feature film from Miyazaki since 2013's The Wind Rises.

How Do You Live? is inspired by the novel of the same name by Genzaburo Yoshino, a narrative exploration of existential questions and the journey towards self-discovery.

The film was released in Japan on July 14 to a great reception, grossing USD $13.2 million (1.83 billion yen) in its opening weekend. Additionally, it is expected to make its international premiere at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival, gracing the festival's opening night on September 7. This historic premiere solidifies the film as a shining example of Japanese storytelling prowess.

Indonesian Horror

Indonesian cinema has long been synonymous with spine-chilling horror, and its 2023 lineup stands as a testament to this reputation. The country's mastery in the horror genre is evident in films like Waktu Maghrib, which continue the tradition of delivering hair-raising experiences to audiences.

Waktu Maghrib, released in Indonesia in February 2023, marks the directorial debut of Sidharta Tata. Produced by Rapi Films and Sky Media, the movie unfolds in a small Central Java village. The story follows Adi, Saman, and Ayu as they confront paranormal activities after a cursed encounter with their teacher during Maghrib time. The enigmatic death of Saman compels Adi and Ayu to unravel the mystery before it consumes them.

Waktu Maghrib received tremendous reception on its release, achieving a remarkable milestone of an impressive 2.2 million views. While details regarding its international release remain sparse, its local success has undeniably generated significant anticipation and intrigue among audiences worldwide.

Thailand Film – Man Suang

Asian cinemas are eagerly anticipating another remarkable film, hailing from Thailand, titled Man Suang. Scheduled for release on August 24, the film has garnered attention both domestically and internationally. Starring esteemed actors Mile Phakphum and Apo Nattawin, Man Suang has already made its mark at prestigious events like the Cannes Film Festival and the 2023 Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF2023).

Produced by BeOnCloud, Man Suang unfolds against the backdrop of the third reign, intertwining elements of dance, aristocracy, and politics. The film is a conscientious effort to preserve the vanishing art of drama for generations to come.

Mile and Apo have immersed themselves in their roles for over a year. Mile's dedication is evident through his mastery of traditional Thai drumming, while Apo has delved into the intricacies of grace and dance traditions. Apo even underwent a significant transformation, shedding 3-4 kg to authentically embody the film's tight costumes and dance concepts.

With its promise of a profound cinematic experience, the film not only showcases the splendour of dance and Siamese history but also captures the essence of a fading era.

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