The Scenery of Love (2020)

gentle melodrama

Watched en route to adding it to the database, with only an autotranslation of autogenerated Thai subtitles. It's gentle melodrama though, with a simple story told somewhat unconventionally, so it was easy to go on vibes, recognised phrases and words from the autotranslation. Then I found a summary (in Thai) which filled in the rest - I got most of it.

The movie shifts tone, feel and focus as it progresses, reflecting (I think) the movie-making of the period each part was set in. Perhaps even to the extent of using vintage equipment. It begins with a father's love for his green vintage Vespa, then his daughter, a misunderstanding and argument, a boy who's like his son and a promise. There's a long road trip, a moving conclusion, and then a silly one, like an outtake added on. Chiang Khan in Isaan Province and several places in the Northern region feature, including Thailand's "Mt Fuji." The ever-present and much loved scooter ties it all together.

If you love Thai film-making or are just interested in seeing more of the northern province and the north of Isaan, this is worth seeking out. Look for it under Rak Kham Khan. The 'official' English title will only get you to a trailer - and don't read the synopsis under the trailer because spoilers. This gentle melodrama is perhaps a bit too Thai to have gotten whatever international attention its makers may have hoped for. And for some of us, that's its appeal.

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