Rivulet of Universe

Seeking to explore his newfound power to perceive beyond the strictures of time, Cambodian migrant Jit travels to Phimai, Thailand, believed to be the site of the epic conflict between prince Prajit, his beloved Orapim and Phommathat the King. In this temple town, Jit meets Pim and Tat, a young couple drifting apart, and together, the trio find themselves reprising the love triangle of legend. In Possathorn Watcharapanit’s enigmatic, entrancing first film Rivulet of Universe, mythological episodes come to resonate with historical events and modern lives, ancient temples compete with national museums and galleries of contemporary art to shape the characters’ senses of self, and the past, present and future all become inseparable currents in a single stream of existence. Moving from the mythic town of Phimai to the megalopolis of Bangkok, Watcharapanit’s feature strives to craft a richly layered religio-historical portrait of Thailand. With its eclectic soundtrack that draws from local and international influences alike, Rivulet of Universe creates a space for sustained mystery and wonder, a chance to contemplate ripples in the cosmic river. (International Film Festival Rotterdam)