Asian Film Festival of Dallas 2010

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“It would take my entire life just to pay off the interest.”

The first thing you notice is the vivid color and texture of the surroundings.  Then two men speak about loans, and how there’s simply no easy way out of the perpetual economic slog into which farming places them.  But throughout AGRARIAN UTOPIA, those stunningly gorgeous, natural images speak volumes.  With a harsh message underlying all that beauty, director Uruphong Raksasad has created a unique hybrid of drama and documentary.

Full disclosure:  the director created a framework of a script, and rented land for two families to cultivate over the course of a year.  The work they endure and the hardships that exist, however, are absolutely real.  And the filmmaker’s feelings on agriculture for consumption vs. profit, globalization, politics and economics are intertwined with the back-breaking work and heart-warming personalities of the film.

The AFFD is very proud to present this dynamic, invigorating film.

Director

Uruphong Raksasad

Cast

Uruphong Raksasad

Country

Thailand

Language

English Subtitles, Thai

Alternate Titles

Sawan baan na

Release Date

2009

Runtime

122 minutes

Print Source

Natnicha Putpituk
Extra Virgin Co., Ltd.
natnicha@extravirginco.com

Exhibition Format

DVD