Watch Dearest Sister

Dearest Sister is a drama-horror film from Laos directed by Mattie Do. It follows the story of a young woman named Nok who leaves her village to work for a wealthy family in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. She goes to take care of Ana, a distant relative who has just received a cornea transplant and is slowly losing her vision. As Nok adapts to the new environment, she discovers that Ana’s condition allows her to see supernatural things. Ana also starts to hear strange whispers that come from her new corneas, and Nok realizes that something very unusual is going on.

The movie is focused on the characters, particularly Nok and Ana, and their relationship as it evolves. Nok is a simple, honest, and hard-working girl who wants to help her family in any way possible. She is shocked by the contrast between the luxury of the house and the poverty outside, but quickly gets used to her new routine. Ana, on the other hand, is a complicated and demanding person. She is bitter, selfish, and has a troubled past. Ana's husband, Jerm, is a successful businessman, but he is always away on work trips, and Ana feels neglected and lonely. As Nok spends more time with Ana, she learns about her fears, desires, and secrets, and gradually becomes her confidante.

The horror aspect of the movie slowly builds up throughout the story. At first, Ana sees only minor apparitions, like flies and shadows, and Nok dismisses them as hallucinations. However, as Ana's visions become more and more vivid and disturbing, Nok starts to believe that there might be something supernatural going on. The mystery of the whispers is also a core element of the plot, as it becomes clear that they are somehow connected to Ana's donor. The tension escalates as Nok tries to uncover the source of the whispers, while Ana's mental state deteriorates.

What makes Dearest Sister stand out from other horror movies is its cultural context. The movie takes place in modern-day Laos, a country that is rarely portrayed in the media. The urban-rural divide, the income inequality, and the influence of tradition on daily life are all showcased in the film. The contrast between Nok's village and the city is especially striking, as it highlights the rapid changes that are happening in Laos. Another interesting aspect of the movie is the local beliefs in spirits and ghosts, which are shown as a common superstition that affects both Nok and Ana. Mattie Do, the director, is known for exploring Laotian folklore in her movies, and she succeeds in creating a unique atmosphere that mixes fear and wonder.

The acting in the movie is superb, with Amphaiphun Phommapunya, Vilouna Phetmany, and Tambet Tuisk delivering excellent performances. Amphaiphun Phommapunya, who plays Nok, has a natural and charming presence that makes her the perfect protagonist for the story. Vilouna Phetmany, who plays Ana, is a complex and nuanced character who is both sympathetic and unsettling. Tambet Tuisk, who plays Jerm, Ana's husband, is a more understated role, but he manages to convey the sense of loneliness and detachment that his character is meant to have.

The cinematography in Dearest Sister is also worth mentioning. The movie is shot in a beautiful and realistic way, with a mix of urban and rural landscapes that give a sense of the country's diversity. The camera work is restrained and elegant, and the use of natural light adds to the movie's authenticity. The music is also notable, with an atmospheric and haunting score that complements the visuals perfectly.

Overall, Dearest Sister is a gripping and thought-provoking movie that combines horror and drama in a unique way. The cross-cultural appeal of the story, the strong performances, and the impressive technical aspects make it a must-see for fans of the genre. The movie's slow pace and emphasis on character development might not be for everyone, but those who appreciate a good story will find much to enjoy in Dearest Sister.

Dearest Sister is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 41 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.