Parallax acquires two standout films from Locarno

A journey through loss and imagination in ‘Joqtau’

Parallax has recently acquired two remarkable titles from this year’s Locarno lineup: Aruan Anartay’s feature debut, Joqtau, and Mickey Lai’s short film, WAShhh. These acquisitions highlight Parallax’s commitment to bringing diverse and thought-provoking cinema to a broader audience.

The poignant narrative of ‘Joqtau’

Produced by Short Brothers and Alem Oner, Joqtau marks Anartay’s first foray into feature-length storytelling. The film delves into the life of a young Kazakh named Darkhan, who copes with the loss of a loved one by imagining a journey with his deceased grandfather. This imagined journey, filled with emotional depth and cultural richness, offers a unique perspective on universal themes such as distance, reconnection, and the enduring power of tenderness.

Anartay, known for his evocative short films set in the Central Asian steppes, brings a distinctive voice to the cinematic landscape. His ability to capture the essence of human experience against the backdrop of vast, open landscapes is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Locarno will host five screenings of Joqtau: one for industry professionals, one for the press, and three open to the public. The film is available for distribution in all territories outside of the Commonwealth of Independent States, promising a wide-reaching impact.

‘WAShhh’: A bold exploration of cultural dynamics

A striking short film by Mickey Lai

WAShhh, a black-and-white short film by Mickey Lai, is set in a Malaysia National Service Camp. The story follows a Chinese female trainee who is tasked by her teacher to lead her multiracial female comrades in washing stained sanitary pads in the middle of the night. This bold narrative explores themes of cultural dynamics, gender roles, and the complexities of communal living.

A Malaysia-Ireland co-production between Ninjia Production, Janji Pictures, and Rockall Films, WAShhh is Lai’s third short film. Lai has quickly established herself as a promising filmmaker, with her debut short, The Could is Still There (2020), being selected for prestigious festivals such as Busan, Clermont-Ferrand, and Shanghai. Her second film, the documentary short A Worm, Whatever Will Be, Will Be, won the jury award at SeaShorts.

The 23-minute film will screen three times between August 10-13 and is available for distribution in all territories outside of Malaysia. Lai’s work continues to garner attention for its bold storytelling and insightful commentary on societal issues.

Reflections on cinema and storytelling

The power of diverse voices

The acquisition of Joqtau and WAShhh by Parallax underscores the importance of diverse voices in cinema. These films offer unique perspectives that challenge audiences to think deeply about cultural, emotional, and societal issues. For cinema enthusiasts, the opportunity to experience stories from different parts of the world is invaluable. It broadens our understanding of the human experience and fosters a greater appreciation for the art of storytelling.

The impact of film festivals

Film festivals like Locarno play a crucial role in bringing these diverse stories to the forefront. They provide a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with a global audience. For TV series and music enthusiasts, the intersection of different art forms at these festivals can be particularly enriching. The blend of visual storytelling, soundscapes, and narrative depth creates a holistic experience that resonates on multiple levels.

Embracing new cinematic experiences

As we look forward to the wider release of Joqtau and WAShhh, it’s worth reflecting on the transformative power of cinema. These films remind us that storytelling is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. Whether through the lens of a young Kazakh’s imagined journey or the stark realities of a Malaysian service camp, these narratives invite us to see the world through different eyes.

For those eager to explore these films further, you can watch the trailers and find more information on their respective pages: Joqtau and WAShhh. Embrace the opportunity to dive into these compelling stories and discover the rich tapestry of human experience they offer.