Southeast Asian Film Series Begins at Istanbul Modern Cinema
Istanbul Modern Cinema is presenting a special program to audiences consisting of 11 remarkable films from Southeast Asia from the 2020s.
Istanbul Modern Cinema is bringing together film enthusiasts with the "Monsoon Dreams" program, focusing on internationally prominent contemporary Southeast Asian cinema.
Scope and Supporters of the Program
Istanbul Modern Cinema is launching a new film program in cooperation with the Consulate General of the Philippines in Istanbul, the Royal Thai Embassy in Ankara, and the Consulate General of Malaysia in Istanbul.
Focusing on regional cinema that has gained visibility at international festivals, the selection offers audiences the opportunity to watch productions from different geographical cultures.
Films Depicting the Region's Transformation
Bringing together 11 remarkable films of the 2020s from the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia, the program addresses the social and political structure of the region.
The productions in the selection reflect the transformations experienced by these countries, daily life, and changing identities through original cinematic languages.
Prominent Master Directors and Nominations
The program features "Rumble" by Cambodian director Rithy Panh, who was previously nominated for an Oscar with "The Missing Picture."
In addition, productions such as "Solids by the Seashore" (originally noted as 9 Temples to Heaven), which premiered at Cannes and was chosen as Thailand's Oscar submission, will meet the audience.
Young Filmmakers and New Voices
The program aims to bring master names and the new generation of filmmakers side by side on the same platform.
New films by important directors such as Panh and Pen-ek Ratanaruang meet with works by young filmmakers who have drawn attention with their debut feature-length projects.
Statements by Curator Müge Turan
Istanbul Modern film curator Müge Turan stated that they have prepared a comprehensive program focusing on Southeast Asian cinema for the first time.
Turan noted that the selection brings together very different worlds, ranging from rapidly transforming cities to relationships established with nature.