Here We Are (Chanasorn Chaikitiporn, 2023) invites the audience to explore the relationship between Thailand’s past and present. The film blends archival footage from the Cold War era with modern images of Bangkok, seen through the perspective of a housemaid who recalls her journey after moving to the capital.
Through his poetic approach, Director Chaikitiporn draws the audience into the story by presenting a narrative delivered by the character “Mamah” that comes across as intimate and personal. The storytelling flows like a fairy tale, warm and familiar, as if we are listening to a story told by a mother. The use of point-of-view shots in the movie reinforces the intimacy of the narrative that makes the audience feel as if they are inside the story, witnessing events through the character’s eyes.
However, Here We Are (2023) not only tells a personal history, but also provides a social and political critique about Thailand. Director Chaikitiporn investigates the interaction between Thailand and the United States during the Cold War era through American archives. He shows how development and modernization in Thailand often exploited communities from the periphery. The influence of the United States is not only felt in the military and economic sectors, but also in the shaping of social and cultural narratives. Chaikitiporn cleverly weaves a picture that connects the past with the present, prompting the audience to think about how peripheral communities are the backbone of a big city like Bangkok’s progress.
With its gentle narration and intimate visuals, Here We Are (2023) reminds us that history is an integral part of our lives. Like a mother telling stories to her children, this film invites us to explore the meaning of the past to understand the life we live today. (FadliAwan) (Ed. Vanis/Trans. Naufal Shabri)
Film Details
Here We Are
Chanasorn Chaikitiporn | 19 Min | 2023 | Thailand
Official Selection for Docs Docs: Short!
Festival Film Dokumenter 2024
Screening Schedule
Nov. 3 | 19:00 WIB | Militaire Societeit, TBY
Nov. 5 | 19:00 WIB | Amphitheater, TBY
