In an effort to keep promises, here’s part two of some of the films you can enjoy at this year’s Toronto Reel Asian Film Festival.
Wonderful Town – director Aditya Assarat – Thailand
Four years after the devastation of the tsunami, Southern Thailand, the place hit the hardest is quickly returning to its once idyllic state. This sets as the backdrop of a quiet romance between the architect come to oversee the rebuilding of the resort and a local innkeeper outside of the tourist area. But their secret love affair is plagued with local gossip that escalates into the unimaginable. Its subtle and reserved execution makes the film worth watching and highly recommended.
Hansel and Gretel – director Yim Pil-Sung
Fairy tales and children’s stories have always had a grim, dark undertones. Many of them share the same characteristics; deep forest, children and evil parents. In this fantastical reinterpretation, many of these same characteristics are present alongside the dark undertones of its influenced tales. Right from the start you start to question the many themes at play and the secrets held in the deep dark forest and perfect home. It’s like watching a cross between Alice in Wonderland and Labryinth. Recommended.
I’m crossing my fingers that I’ll be able to put up the POP 88 interview with Executive Director Deanna Wong tomorrow.
