“9 Temples to Heaven”, interview with director Sompot Chidgasornpongse

“9 Temples To Heaven” has been awarded with the Torino Film Lab Fund. We met with the film director Sompot Chidgasornpongse, to talk about the film and the TFLab experience.

Understanding the 9 Temples to Heaven

The “9 Temples to Heaven” are more than just religious sites; they represent a cultural tradition deeply rooted in Thai Buddhism. Traveling to nine temples in one day to make merit is believed to generate the highest amount of good karma, especially since nine is considered a lucky number in Thailand. This practice is often performed by families seeking blessings for their loved ones, emphasizing the importance of faith, ritual, and community cohesion. The film vividly portrays this tradition, illustrating its significance in contemporary Thai society.

The role of the 9 Temples to Heaven in the film

In the film, the 9 Temples to Heaven serve as a powerful backdrop for exploring familial bonds and individual beliefs. The story centers around a family undertaking this pilgrimage to prolong the grandmother’s life and foster unity despite their differing convictions. The repeated ritual of visiting nine temples underscores themes of hope, love, and the complexities of faith. The film also subtly comments on societal issues, reflecting how collective rituals can serve as a metaphor for unity amid diversity, echoing broader social dynamics.

Cultural and emotional significance of the 9 Temples to Heaven

The tradition of visiting the 9 Temples to Heaven encapsulates more than religious observance; it embodies familial love and cultural identity. As shown in the film, the act brings together family members with varying beliefs, illustrating the unifying power of shared rituals. Sompot Chidgasornpongse emphasizes that, whether or not such practices directly influence outcomes like health or luck, they strengthen bonds and provide a sense of collective hope. The portrayal of this tradition highlights its enduring emotional significance in Thai life and its reflection of societal values, resonating with audiences worldwide through the lens of the 9 Temples to Heaven.

Plot