Too many interesting films and not enough time? Can’t choose which films to watch? Here are the Helsinki Cine Aasia organising team’s favourite and most anticipated films from this year’s programme. You don’t want to miss these!
Eija, programming director
“Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains mixes today and tradition, and includes an incredible long take – naturally there needs to be one at our festival each year.”
Screening times: Sat 14.3. at 16:15 Kino Regina and Sun 15.3. at 13:30 Korjaamo Elokuvasali + discussion: Landscape in Chinese Art
“ON-GAKU: Our Sound is a nifty indie anime that combines Japanese school life, creating music and Kaurismäki-style humour.”
Screening times: Fri 13.3. at 16:45 Orion and Sat 14.3. at 22:00 Korjaamo Kulmasali
Jenni, managing director
“Krabi 2562 is a visually titillating film that occasionally approaches media art. A certain harmonic peace comes along with exploring various themes and people. Those familiar with the work of Weerasethakul might recognise a resemblance.”
Screening times: Sat 14.3. at 14:00 Korjaamo Kulmasali + discussion: Tourism in Thailand – Local views and Sun 15.3. at 16:30 Orion
“Synapses brings to mind many Taiwanese favourites with its atmospheric touch on everyday life. Subtle and deep, the film addresses many of life’s difficult aspects, including some heavier themes.”
Screening times: Sat 14.3. at 19:15 Korjaamo Elokuvasali and Sun 15.3. at 19:15 Kino Regina
Leena, producer
“The Odd Family: Zombie on Sale: One just can’t get enough of zombie films! It’s always interesting to see the living dead swoop the spotlight in various cultural imagery.”
Screening times: Sat 14.3. at 16:45 Korjaamo Elokuvasali and Sun 15.3. at 19:00 Orion
Sonia, graphic designer
“The early-20th-century-set They Say Nothing Stays the Same is already interesting as a period piece alone. In addition the expectations for beautiful cinematography are high, especially for a Wong Kar-wai fan, since the film is shot by Wong’s regular collaborator Christopher Doyle.”
Screening times: Fri 13.3. at 18:30 Orion
Juho, DJ
“ON-GAKU: Our Sound is a great not only as a film, but as a musical experience too. The music in it is first-rate, honouring the best traditions of Japanese psychedelia. The animation in the music performance sequences is astounding. On the other hand, the characters are a bit like Beavis and Butthead – in a good way.”
“Labyrinth of Cinema: Hanagatami by the same director was screened at Helsinki Cine Aasia a couple of years ago and became one of my greatest cinema experiences ever, so of course I’m excited about Labyrinth of Cinema!