The Spirits Of Maritime Crossing, an experimental short film written and directed by Prof Apinan Poshyananda, artistic director of Bangkok Art Biennale, will have a world premiere during the St Moritz Art Film Festival in Switzerland from Aug 31 to Sept 3.
A testimony of long cultural relations between Italy and Thailand, the short film links Venice and Bangkok through a journey of a wandering spirit played by internationally renowned performance artist Marina Abramovic.
On her ghostly voyage in search of refuge and internal peace, she encounters symbolic figures and visits sacred places. Through rituals, encounters, and teachings, she realises the departure of her soul from her body and finds relief. The movie concludes with her contemplation in Venice, symbolising the end of her transformative quest.
In the making of this film, an exceptionally skilled and diverse crew brought their immense talents to the table. Leading the charge was Abramovic who infused the narrative with a mesmerising blend of vibrancy and profundity.
With a revolutionary career that began in Belgrade during the early 1970s, Abramovic is renowned for pioneering performance art and creating some of its most significant early works.
She fearlessly explores the boundaries of her physical and mental capabilities, enduring pain, exhaustion and danger in her relentless pursuit of emotional and spiritual transformation.
Adding to the film's brilliance was Pichet Klunchun and his dance company, who showcased their extraordinary talent in Thai classical dance. The cast of immensely talented supporting actors includes Vasan Sitthiket, Wannaphon Chimbanchong, Taweesak Molsawat and many others who brought a touch of depth to their roles, crafting a philosophical cinematic experience.
The shooting of this film took place at various heritage sites in Bangkok including Wat Pho, Phra Debvajracarya Thiab Malai, Wat Leng Noei Yi and the East Asiatic company building.
In Venice, parts of the film were shot at Piazza San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Isola di San Michele, Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo and Palazzo Smith Mangilli Valmarana.
The film was funded by the Bangkok Art Biennale Foundation with support from ThaiBev.