The Bangkok Experimental Film Festival (BEFF) has returned after a 12-year hiatus, bringing a vibrant showcase of avant-garde cinema and art to the heart of Bangkok. Running from January 25 to February 2, 2025, at the One Bangkok Forum, BEFF7 explores the theme “Nowhere Somewhere,” delving into questions of space, identity, and the fluid nature of existence.
The festival, supported by One Bangkok, offers a diverse program of film screenings, art installations, live performances, workshops, and seminars. Over 129 experimental films from around the globe will be shown across 29 curated programs, featuring both emerging and established filmmakers.
Guest curators include Mary Pansanga, May Adadol Ingawanij, Julian Ross, David Teh, the Kaddukkas Collective, and George Clark. Special programs will also highlight selections from the Thai Film Archive and past BEFF festivals.
Photo: Cosmorama
Photo: Dissolving Room
Beyond the screenings, BEFF7 features immersive art installations, including “COSMORAMA” and “DISSOLVING ROOM,” showcasing the work of invited artists.
A highlight of the festival is “A Conversation with the Sun (VR),” a collaboration between acclaimed director Apichatpong Weerasethakul and composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, blending VR technology, performance, and animation.
Photo: A Conversation with the Sun (VR)
Experimental live performances will push the boundaries of theater, with five productions directed by Thai filmmakers and artists, including works by Siwaroj Khongsakul, Puangsroi Aksornswang, and Nattapol Boonprakob.
Photo: Leave us to complete the film
Photo: BEFF Market
The “Night of the Dry Flowers” live music performance, curated by SO::ON Dry Flower, will feature renowned artists like Okkyung Lee and Wukir Suryadi.
BEFF7 also offers opportunities for learning and engagement through workshops and seminars. These include an experimental filmmaking workshop led by Rolling Wild, a foley workshop by Anon Nongyao, and a seminar titled “Why (Not) Cinema?” with Apichatpong and Sompot Chidgasornpongse.
A special discussion, “An Encounter: The Last Thing You Saw That Felt Like a Movie,” will feature Apichatpong and Tilda Swinton.
Founded in 1997 by Gridthiya Gaweewong and Apichatpong, BEFF aims to promote experimental and independent filmmaking in Thailand and the broader Asian region. The festival provides a platform for artists who challenge traditional cinematic conventions and fosters a dialogue between filmmakers, artists, and audiences. For more information about BEFF7, visit beffth.com.
