Rithy Panh Miyake Sho Tokyo cinema discussion unfolded at the Tokyo International Film Festival’s TIFF Lounge as two of world cinema’s most distinctive voices shared the stage . Panh served as president of the Locarno Film Festival jury that awarded Miyake’s Two Seasons, Two Strangers the Golden Leopard earlier this year . Both reflected on how viewing habits have changed with Panh noting now everyone watches the small screen .
Rithy Panh Miyake Sho Tokyo cinema discussion centered on Panh’s new work We Are the Fruits of the Forest, which he described as a political film about capitalism’s destruction of nature and communities . Miyake recalled his grandfather in Hokkaido who worked as both farmer and coal miner, saying I wanted to film his hands but never did, your film reminded me of what I lost . Each episode lasts about as long as two subway stops, with Miyake adding we’re making full meals, not snacks .
Rithy Panh Miyake Sho Tokyo cinema discussion addressed modern formats versus traditional filmmaking. Panh said he was planning to shoot his next project on Super 8 film, describing that choice as protest against the dominance of mini digital formats . Discussing recurring themes, Panh said cinema saved me as the only Cambodian filmmaker who has worked on that memory while searching for new cinematic forms .
Rithy Panh Miyake Sho Tokyo cinema discussion concluded with perspectives on work and empathy. Panh stated empathy the attention we give to the weakest is a political act, adding he tries to stay calm and think of something positive every day . Miyake said if one film can still reach someone with empathy, that’s enough reason to continue .
