A Story That Resonates With Reality

Read Time:3 Minute, 13 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Young People, Old People & Nothing in Between (วายป็อบ)
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Genre: Comedy, Short
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 20m
Director(s): Parida Tanti
Writer(s): Parida Tanti
Cast: Suwinya Kungsadan, Deedee Piamwiriyaku
Language: Thai with English subtitles
Where To Watch: showing at the 2024 Slamdance Film Festival, www.slamdance.com, or for more information, visit www.paridatanti.com

RAVING REVIEW: YOUNG PEOPLE, OLD PEOPLE & NOTHING IN BETWEEN is an emotional expedition, skillfully charting the complex interplay of life, memory, and relationships while being packed into a 20-minute runtime. Directed by Parida (Tantiwasadakran) Tanti, this film introduces us to Juice (Deedee Piamwiriyaku) and her grandmother (Suwinya Kungsadan), who are battling against a struggle against the tide of dementia. From the outset, we are taken into a world where memories, even the most minor details, mean everything.

The movie opens a window into Tanti's Thai-American heritage, enriching the narrative with vibrant cultural hues. Grandma Lovely's journey, portrayed with grace, paints a picture of aging and the erosion of memory. The storytelling is nuanced, underpinned by the intimate cinematic techniques that bring the characters' inner worlds to life. The film employs close-ups, seamless editing, and a soundtrack that eloquently echoes the unfolding drama, crafting a rich story with visual and emotional storytelling.

I would love to see this story expanded; the film had an incredible impact with the short runtime, but I would have loved to have seen more. I want to know where this deep-rooted connection came from. More of the story behind Grandma Lovely’s life journey, Juice’s emotional battles with realizing what’s happening around her, etc. This is in no way a knock on the film; it’s nearly perfect in its short format, but there is so much more to this beautiful story between them!

The film triumphs in portraying the enduring strength of human connections amidst the ephemeral nature of memory. Tanti's connection with her grandmother, Vimol, adds a genuine authenticity to the narrative. Her love of film and poetry is apparent, weaving a visually compelling and lyrically poignant story. The story, being so short, feels like a visual poem on screen, each scene capturing an emotion, almost without the need for dialogue.

YOUNG PEOPLE, OLD PEOPLE & NOTHING IN BETWEEN is a cinematic dive into the heart that balances themes of love, loss, and the resilience of memory. Its core lies in its heartfelt storytelling, enriched by cultural depth and the director's insights, crafting an experience that will last long after the credits roll. The film is a poignant and meaningful piece that resonates with anyone touched by the nuances of memory loss. This film enlightens and connects with its viewers emotionally, making it an accessible viewing experience for anyone.

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