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Rave Therapy: Film Explores Body Memory and Catharsis
13 Feb
Summary
- Film blends desert odyssey with rave culture's spiritual catharsis.
- Actor initially prejudiced against ravers, later praised their values.
- Oscar nominations highlight innovative sound design and international cinema.
Filmmaker Óliver Laxe's "Sirât," recognized with two Oscar nominations, including Best International Feature, took 14 years to realize. The film follows Luis's journey into the Moroccan desert to find his lost daughter, a quest that intertwines with the vibrant, pulsating world of underground raves. Laxe views filmmaking as an art of managing frustration, emphasizing surrender and faith.
Laxe explored rave culture across Europe and Morocco, finding in dance floors a modern echo of ancient communal ceremonies and body-based catharsis. He noted that ravers possess a profound "memory in their bodies" of ancestral practices. Actor Sergi López, initially skeptical, discovered the ravers' deep commitment to values and mutual care.
The film also earned a Best Sound nomination for its female-led team, recognizing its intricate sound design that immerses the audience. Laxe and his sound team dedicated nine months to crafting the auditory landscape, integrating it seamlessly with the narrative. "Sirât" aims to deeply penetrate the spectator, shaking them emotionally and engaging them beyond simple like or dislike.
