From Elderly Female Dance Groups to Dolly Parton Impersonators...
Introduction of Eleven Films in the International Competition Section of Jecheon International Music & Film Festival
'Calendar Girls', 'Udangtang Orchestra', 'Nasing Compeoljeu', etc.
From the 11th to the 16th of next month, the Jecheon International Music & Film Festival will showcase over 140 music films from thirty-nine countries. The films drawing the most attention are concentrated in the international competition section. Eleven films will be introduced, including five narrative films, five documentaries, and one animation, all recognized for their artistic merit at prestigious film festivals worldwide.
The highest-scoring work will be awarded the grand prize along with a cash prize of 50 million won. The jury includes director Mike Figgis, known for "Leaving Las Vegas" (1995) and "Ten Minutes ? Cello" (2002), producer Kim Sun-ah, Kim Hong-jun, director of the Korean Film Archive, Anna Machuk, executive chairperson of the Ukrainian Film Academy, and director Park Heung-sik, among others.
The Swedish documentary "Calendar Girls" highlights a dance group of women over 60 living in Florida, USA. It overturns outdated images of the elderly and reveals the deep human desire for creativity and friendship. The film calmly portrays the stories of members living their post-retirement lives in their own ways, prompting reflection on how we age and what kind of life we should lead after retirement.
"Udangtang Orchestra" is a Spanish animation about musicians with various flaws who form a band and embark on a musical journey. Through scenes of singing, playing instruments, and feeling the rhythm, it invites viewers to reconsider the values of friendship and success. The story is based on the award-winning "Orkestra Lurtarra," recipient of the Euskadi Literature Prize. Directors Imanol Zinkunegi and Joseba Ponce emphasize the characters' personalities, delivering delightful music and humor.
"Laurent Garnier: Off the Record" is a UK-Belgian documentary that sheds light on the 30-year musical career of techno pioneer Laurent Garnier. Director Gavin Le Bihan, praised for the 2012 film "Violence with Benefit," densely captures Garnier’s pioneering spirit through recent world tour footage and archival images. It serves as a historical record of house and techno music and a moving portrait of a musician who turned his dreams into reality.
"Look at Me: XXXTentacion" is an American documentary retracing the path of teenage boy XXXTentacion as he grew into a hip-hop artist. Through candid statements from family, friends, and lovers, as well as unreleased footage, it paints a delicate portrait. XXXTentacion gained popularity with honest confessions about his mental health and courageous lyrics but endured days marked by violence and obsession. Director Saba Polayan confronts both his shining moments and his darkest sides head-on.
"The Naked Truth of the Ziguli Band" is a Bulgarian narrative film that humorously depicts the reunion process of the once-popular rock group Ziguli Band. The story begins when a fan who remembers them promises a large reward and asks the original members to gather and perform. Director Viktor Bozhinov focuses on conveying the power of music to evoke past memories without losing vitality despite the weight of time and relationships.
"Nothing Compares" is an Irish-British documentary about the life of Irish singer-songwriter Sin?ad O’Connor. It explores not only how O’Connor gained worldwide fame but also the reasons she was pushed out of the mainstream from various perspectives. Director Catherine Ferguson examines her legacy through a feminist lens, born from her prophetic words and boldness. The film warmly portrays her fiery life of continuous resistance against discrimination, exploitation, and injustice.
"Other People" is a Polish-French narrative film that highlights loneliness and daily life in a cold city through the absurd everyday experiences of aspiring rapper Kamil and those around him. It multilayeredly depicts isolated people searching for love in Warsaw. While based on the eponymous novel by Polish writer Dorota Masłowska, nearly all dialogue is delivered with hip-hop beats and rap rhythms, showcasing exceptional skill.
"Poser" is an American narrative film set in the indie music scene of Columbus, Ohio. It follows Lennon Gates as he interviews musicians he admires and confirms his musical ambitions, depicting his process of creating a new identity. The film’s deep affection for indie music and profound understanding of art combine with engaging storytelling to express a fresh sensibility.
"Seriously Red" is an Australian narrative film about the lively yet quirky female Raelin Red Delaney, who gives up a stable real estate career to impersonate Dolly Parton on stage. It interestingly portrays her growing confusion as she continues down the path of a tribute singer.
"Siren" is an American-Lebanese documentary spotlighting Slave to Sirens, the Middle East’s first female metal band based in Beirut, Lebanon. It starkly conveys the reality where the band, country, and dreams are all in crisis. The film includes intimate personal stories about friendship, gender, and identity while exposing Lebanon’s complex political and social realities.
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"Soul at Twenty" is a Japanese narrative film about a high school student who created a legendary cheer song and later learns he has cancer after graduation. The protagonist, Asano Taiki, continues to perform and compose even as his condition worsens. Director Jun Akiyama depicts the daily lives of the high school orchestra members surrounding this poignant story. The film’s energy is elevated by pure love for music and camaraderie, offering comfort through a touching ensemble performance.
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