Tsai Ming-liang's latest film ‘Dust’ premieres at Venice and San Sebastian, exploring themes of slowness. This marks a significant chapter in Tsai's ‘Walker’ series.
Filmmaker Tsai Ming-liang officially premiered his new film, ‘Dust’, at the Venice Film Festival before taking it to the San Sebastian Film Festival. This film is the 11th installment of his acclaimed ‘Walker’ series, showcasing Tsai's signature approach to storytelling that embraces sensitivity and slowness.
According to Variety, ‘Dust’ features a barefoot monk in a striking red robe traversing the picturesque landscape of San Sebastian. This marks the monk’s inaugural journey through Spain, continuing a project initiated by Tsai in 2012. The film is produced by Vitrine Filmes and Homegreen Films, with support from local cultural institutions. The narrative eschews traditional storytelling techniques, opting instead for a visually driven experience that immerses viewers in the settings explored.
In reflecting on his work, Tsai noted that the concept of slowness transcends mere pacing; it serves as a means of rebellion against the conventional cinematic norms that favor rapid image processing. By advocating for a slower, more contemplative viewing experience, Tsai aims to encourage audiences to truly engage with the visuals and emotions presented. Current trends in cinema often lead viewers to prioritize quick information processing over emotional engagement. Tsai’s approach challenges this norm, pushing for a deeper connection with the medium.
The film takes viewers through San Sebastian, depicting its unique ambiance and character. Tsai expressed appreciation for the city’s surrounding beauty, including its Basque stone houses and cultural elements such as the powerful sound of church bells. His collaboration with a largely Spanish crew did not hinder his artistic vision, as he praised their cinematographic abilities and how they captured the film’s essence.
The ‘Walker’ series has previously featured locations such as Taipei, Hong Kong, and Marseille, with each iteration reflecting the distinct atmosphere of its setting. Future entries in the series are already planned, with Tsai set to take his cinematic exploration to Jeonju, Korea. He emphasized that the series would continue as long as he and actor Lee Kang-sheng are able to work together. The collaboration between Tsai and Lee, spanning over three decades, not only highlights their artistic synergy but also stands as a testament to the evolution of their capacities as storytellers and performers.
The release of ‘Dust’ marks a notable return for Tsai Ming-liang to the festival circuit, especially following his historic win for Golden Lion at Venice in 1994 with ‘Vive L'Amour’. As the director forges ahead with his explorations of non-narrative cinema, ‘Dust’ serves as both a continuation of his legacy and a challenge to conventional filmmaking expectations. By embracing the art of slowness, Tsai endeavors to carve out a distinctive space within cinema that resonates with audiences seeking depth beyond surface-level narratives.
For more about Tsai’s return to Venice, read our coverage on Netflix's ‘Ink’ and Oscar buzz and Andrea Pallaoro's ‘The Echo Chamber’.
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