Documentary Shorts Competition presented by IMDbPro

Birdsong

"Birdsong" explores the dying whistling traditions of the Hmong people of northern Laos, whose sonic exchanges straddle the boundary between music and speech. The film follows the personal stories of three individuals from Long Lan village, as they reflect on their experience as practitioners of a vanishing musical language. "Birdsong" portrays the collision of an ancient linguistic practice with the modern condition of urban life in Laos. The film explores how listening can change our perception of both society and nature, offering a glimpse into the philosophical relationship between sound and reality.

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photo of Omi Zola Gupta
photo of Sparsh Ahuja

Credits

Directors:

Omi Zola Gupta, Sparsh Ahuja

Executive Producer:

Steve Melia, Cherie Federico, Lindsay Poulton, Jess Gormley

Producer:

Sparsh Ahuja, Omi Zola Gupta, Dorn Bouttasing

Cinematographer:

Janamejaya Daroz

Editor:

Giorgia Zarantonello

Sound Designer:

Carlos San Juan Juanchi

Principal Cast:

Neng Chi Lee, Chia Por Lee, Jong Sue Lee, Li Her, Neng Chue Vang

Additional Credits:

Co-Producer: Lao New Wave Cinema, Line Producer: Bounsoo Thor, Translators: Bounsoo Thor, Sinxay Thavixay, Gaffer: Florent Duroc, Sound Engineer & Recordist: Athidxay Boundaoheuang, 1st Assistant Camera: Phetoudone Vongsoonthone, Best Boy Electrician: Thipphavanh Sensackda, Colourist: Yash Soni, Graphic Designer: Ollie Cameron

Contact

Distributor:

Lindsay Poulton
lindsay.poulton@theguardian.com

Public Film Contact:

Sparsh Ahuja
Riverpunch Films
sparshahuja9@gmail.com

Publicity Contact:

Omi Zola Gupta
omizola@gmail.com
(+44) 793-483-7594

Sales Agent:

Guardian Documentaries

Primary Access
Platinum Badge
Film & TV Badge
Secondary Access
Music Badge
Interactive Badge
Film & TV Festival Wristband
About
Year:
2022
Premiere Status:
Screening Section:
Screening Category:
Country:
Language:
Runtime:
17 mins