"Close Conversation" (Ploy)
■ Director: Pen-Ek Ratanaruang
■ Starring: Porntip Papanai, Lalita Panyopas, Ananda Everingham
■ Official Website: http://www.ploythemovie.com/
If Champagne had an annual recommendation list, "Ploy" would undoubtedly be included in the 2007 recommended films. Recently, I watched "Stardust" and "Dragon Wars," both of which are fantasy films following the standard Hollywood route—more like exhibitions showcasing modern computer graphics achievements. However, when I saw this Thai film "Ploy," it was a real eye-opener. Such a transcendent work is truly rare. Amidst the endless stream of commercial blockbusters that drift by like water, such a clear and profound piece requires no excessive praise. It simply stands quietly there, naturally possessing an extraordinary beauty that transcends the ordinary.