A Voice from Beyond: Thai Film Takes Center Stage

This year's prestigious Cannes Film Festival has witnessed a remarkable triumph with the Thai film "A Useful Ghost" snagging the coveted Grand Prix Ami Paris trophy at the Critics' Week – a segment celebrated for showcasing groundbreaking new talent.

What’s the Story?

Drawing inspiration from the famous Thai ghost tale of Mae Nak, this unique cinematic offering is penned and directed by Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke. The film, co-produced by the Singaporean company Momo Film Co alongside partners from France and Germany, tells the poignant story of a woman who tragically dies from dust pollution and returns as a vacuum cleaner, unveiling a beautifully unconventional love story between the realms of the living and the otherworldly.

Star Power and Production Insights

Starring the talented Davika Hoorne and Witsarut Himmarat, "A Useful Ghost" is not just a cinematic feast but a collaboration that showcases Southeast Asian talent. Notably, Singapore’s sound designer Lim Ting Li and product designer Sim Hao Jie played essential roles behind the scenes.

Celebrating Southeast Asian Storytelling

In a statement before the film's monumental win, co-producer and Momo Film Co’s founder Tan Si En expressed deep pride in having "A Useful Ghost" featured at Cannes. She remarked on the festival's commitment to strong narratives and originality, emphasizing the importance of Southeast Asian storytelling resonating on a global scale.

A Cinematic Wave of Support

This film's journey has been made possible through the Southeast Asia Co-Production Grant from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) as part of its Media Talent Progression Programme. Film enthusiasts can keep an eye out for the announcement regarding the Singapore release date.

More Singaporean Productions Shine at Cannes!

In addition to "A Useful Ghost," two other noteworthy films dubbed "made-with-Singapore" are making a mark at Cannes. "Renoir," directed by the esteemed Chie Hayakawa, is in competition for the prestigious Palme d'Or, while "Before The Sea Forgets," a short by Le Ngoc Duy, is featured in Directors' Fortnight.