IFFI Closes International Section on a High with Thailand’s Surreal Gem A Useful Ghost

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Thailand’s A Useful Ghost brought a vibrant and surreal close to the International section at the International Film Festival of India, leaving audiences both amused and contemplative. Directed by Ratchapoom, the film explores a whimsical narrative in which a ghost returns not as a human, but as a vacuum cleaner—a playful yet deeply symbolic choice reflecting the real-world dangers of dust pollution that claim the life of the protagonist. The unusual approach was born from Ratchapoom’s desire to break free from conventional depictions of ghosts, blending subtle supernatural elements with unexpected sci-fi touches to create something quietly intimate and visually inventive.

Cinematographer Song Pasit described the film’s visual style as a deliberate interplay between humor and gravity, embracing a philosophy of “don’t be afraid not to be cinematic,” which allowed the team to experiment freely with color, framing, and surreal visual motifs. Behind the scenes, associate producer Tanade Amornpiyalerk highlighted the limited but emerging opportunities in Thai cinema, an industry dominated by Hollywood releases with around 30 local films released annually. Despite these constraints, Ratchapoom emphasized his belief that films should go beyond pure entertainment to express meaningful ideas, a principle evident in A Useful Ghost.

Actor Wisarut Homhuan shared that the role was both challenging and transformative, marking a milestone in his career. Having worked across TV and digital platforms, Homhuan explained that opportunities for film actors in Thailand remain scarce, making his performance in this film a breakthrough moment for recognition within the cinematic landscape. The global journey of the film, from an offbeat concept to festival acclaim, left Ratchapoom astonished and elated. “Who would have thought such a film with such a crazy idea could travel so far and reach so many people?” he remarked, reflecting on the unexpected resonance of his quirky, thoughtful creation.

A Useful Ghost demonstrates the power of imaginative storytelling, blending social commentary with whimsy, and showcasing the evolving face of Thai cinema on the international stage. Its success at IFFI reinforces the notion that even the most unconventional ideas, when executed with heart and vision, can captivate audiences worldwide.