Pakk Taii Design Week 2024 has once again proved to be a groundbreaking celebration of creativity and culture, bringing the rich heritage of southern Thailand to the forefront. Held late last month across various locations including Songkhla Old Town, Samila Beach, Hat Yai and Pattani province, this year's event was more than just a festival -- it was a call to action.
Under the theme "The South's Turn!", the festival aimed to highlight the unique cultural assets and talents of the South, sparking a creative renaissance that not only energised the local economy but also improved the quality of life for its communities.
One of the most talked-about events at this year's festival was the Microwave Film Festival, which captivated audiences with its dynamic programming and innovative approach to cinema. Curated by Chaiyapruek Chalermpornpanit, a seasoned director of photography with decades of experience, the Microwave Film Festival was conceived as a platform to connect filmmakers from various backgrounds, both established and emerging, mainstream and independent.
Chaiyapruek, who also serves as a special lecturer in film at Silpakorn and Chulalongkorn universities, emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between different generations of filmmakers.
Creative Economy Agency (CEA)
"I've been involved in the Thai film industry for over a decade, from directing and producing films to teaching about film," Chaiyapruek shared. "I realised that my work has always been about elevating the film industry and connecting the old with the new. That's what led to the creation of Microwave Film Festival -- a dream festival where filmmakers of all frequencies can come together to learn, share and grow."
The festival's name, Microwave Film Festival, is fitting given its mission to rapidly heat up and expand the film industry in Thailand. With a strong belief that the Thai film industry has the potential to challenge global trends, the festival provides a space where filmmakers of all kinds can come together, clash creatively and spark new ideas.
"We wanted to make a film festival that isn't just for filmmakers, but also an interesting festival for creative people in all fields. This is the DNA of our festival," Chaiyapruek pointed out.
Microwave Film Festival's line-up was diverse and engaging, featuring seven main activities designed to appeal to a wide range of interests. The screenings showcased a variety of films across different genres, including 20 high-quality short films from new graduates nationwide. The festival also offered classes to enhance the skills of budding filmmakers, going beyond the classroom to provide hands-on learning experiences.
"It's about more than just watching films," Chaiyapruek noted. "It's about learning the craft, understanding the industry and pushing boundaries."
Microwave Film Festival curator Chaiyapruek Chalermpornpanit. Creative Economy Agency (CEA)
In addition to classes, the festival hosted conversations that delved into the intricacies of the film industry and beyond, revealing lesser-known insights and sparking meaningful discussions. Networking events connected filmmakers from across Thailand, fostering collaborations and encouraging the exchange of ideas.
One of the most unique aspects of the festival was the "Living Cinema", a series of live performances that blurred the lines between real life and cinema, creating immersive experiences that captivated audiences.
"We wanted to create a space where real life and cinema could intersect in unexpected ways," Chaiyapruek said.
Another innovative element of the festival was "Living Dialogue", an exhibition of southern Thai film scripts that sparked conversations about the region's unique storytelling traditions. The "Sound & Sight Seeing" tours offered attendees a chance to explore the city through the eyes of filmmakers, gaining a deeper understanding of how environment and culture shape cinematic narratives.
Among the festival's many highlights, one that stood out was the debut of Dhutanga Cinema, a travelling movie theatre designed to bring films to communities everywhere. Created by Made By Lert, a Chiang Mai-based furniture design studio, Dhutanga Cinema is a 25-seat, mobile, modular cinema that can be easily assembled and disassembled, making it perfect for reaching remote areas that lack access to traditional cinemas.
Movie posters for short films by new university graduates. Creative Economy Agency (CEA)
The concept behind Dhutanga Cinema was inspired by the idea of a dhutanga -- a Pali term for pilgrimage. This cinema on the move aims to screen a diverse range of films, both mainstream and independent, while also serving as a space for workshops and the exchange of ideas.
Chief designer Navarat Techaratanaprasert of Made By Lert explained the inspiration behind the project: "The core of our design philosophy is versatility. All the furniture we create can be disassembled, reassembled and transformed. We love films and art, so we wanted to take this concept and expand it into a larger space. That's how Dhutanga Cinema was born."
Dhutanga Cinema's design reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Constructed using materials sourced from the South, the cinema is adorned with handcrafted decorations unique to each area it visits, making each screening a celebration of local culture.
Navarat elaborated on the design process: "We wanted to create a space that feels intimate and special, where people can enjoy a high-quality cinematic experience, no matter where they are. This project is like an updated version of the outdoor cinema we all remember from the past, but with modern amenities and a focus on community engagement."
The mobile cinema is equipped with a high-quality visual and sound system, comparable to that of a standard multiplex cinema, ensuring that audiences have an exceptional viewing experience.
The mobile Dhutanga Cinema from Made By Lert. Creative Economy Agency (CEA)
"We wanted to provide the same quality of sight and sound as multiplex cinemas in shopping centres, but in a format that's accessible and mobile," Navarat said. "It's about bringing cinema to people, rather than making them come to us."
Dhutanga Cinema isn't just about screening films -- it's about creating a space where people can come together to share stories, ideas and experiences. The cinema's flexible design allows it to transform into a workshop space, fostering creativity and encouraging dialogue between local communities and younger generations.
"Beyond screening films, we see Dhutanga Cinema as a tool for cultural exchange and education," Navarat explained. "It's a place where people can learn from each other and grow together."
Reflecting on the future of Dhutanga Cinema, Navarat expressed hope that the project will continue to evolve and reach more communities across Thailand.
"We want it to be more than just a cinema," he said. "We want it to be a platform for creativity, a space where people can come together to watch films, share ideas, and celebrate the magic of storytelling. The heart of making this cinema lies in the people, the sounds, the visuals, the craftsmanship -- it's all about the collective experience."
As Pakk Taii Design Week 2024 came to a close, the success of the Microwave Film Festival and Dhutanga Cinema underscored the power of creativity and community in shaping the future of southern Thailand. The festival not only showcased the region's rich cultural heritage but also highlighted the potential for innovation and collaboration to drive social and economic change.
A talk at Microwave Film Festival. Creative Economy Agency (CEA)
Chaiyapruek Chalermpornpanit's vision for the Microwave Film Festival, combined with Navarat Techaratanaprasert's innovative design of Dhutanga Cinema, exemplifies how art and design can come together to create meaningful experiences that resonate with people from all walks of life.
As Chaiyapruek aptly put it: "Our goal is to create a festival that's not just about films, but about bringing people together, inspiring creativity and celebrating the beauty of our shared stories."
Looking ahead, the legacy of Pakk Taii Design Week 2024 will continue to inspire and energise the creative community in southern Thailand, paving the way for future festivals that build on this year's successes and explore new frontiers in art, culture, and innovation.
As Navarat reflected: "The journey of Dhutanga Cinema is just beginning. We're excited to see where it takes us and the communities we serve. This is just the start of something truly special."
