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DMZ Docs Industry Projects



Ta-thung: Between Two Worlds

Ismail Fahmi LUBIS

  • Indonesia
  • 100min
  • DCP, mov
  • color

Synopsis

This is the story of a Ta-thung family who work as spirit mediums. Following the death of their father, who was both the family head and spiritual teacher, his knowledge and power has fallen to Ahen (22yrs). Under the guidance of their Uncle Tan Jaya, Ahen continues his father¡¯s unfinished mission - attempting to unite the 5 General Gods into one greater power. Ahen, assisted by his younger brother Holan, continues to care for their altar. Meanwhile, elder brother Steven remains busy with life outside the spiritual realm, while Anthony is disconnected, having rejected his role as an intermediary for the Gods. Tragedy strikes when eldest brother Ahsan dies through spiritual misadventure. The brothers¡¯ division hinders their father¡¯s mission and culminates in a major fire that breaks out surrounding their home. At this moment, Ahen¡¯s strength is tested as he takes on caring for their house of worship where the Gods and Ta-thung meet. Overseeing everything is Mamma, who remains influential in guiding her children, so as not to fall as Ahsan did. So Ahen¡¯s mission is to unite his family through strong leadership and to navigate the Covid pandemic inhibiting their ability to function spiritually. Can their family thrive? 

Review

I¡¯ve built a strong relationship with Ahen¡¯s family over many years. As a result, I have developed an extraordinary level of trust in which to film intimate family moments and unlimited access to his impressive Ta-thung activities. Although I¡¯m often drawn to strange, marginalized or unknown characters, my vision is to explore universal themes within these unique worlds. I¡¯m excited by the potential of the different layers in this film; the characters, the dynamics between them. There is so much that draws me in. Could Ahen turn his back on his father¡¯s God? Does he have a choice? How does this change who he is and the path his life will take? How does the spirit world and the legacy of the five generals become a metaphor for the modern family unit? And above all, can the family stay strong and transition to a new generation of leaders? My films favor long takes, and I have an immersive style. With Ta-thung, I want to push my creative approach further with my cinematography, sound design and story-telling. 

Director

  • Ismail Fahmi LUBIS

     

Credit

  • Producer´Ð Ä®ÆÅÁö¾È Nick CALPAKDJIAN