Structured like a concept album, Turn Left Turn Right follows Kanitha, a free-spirited young woman drifting through menial jobs in Phnom Penh. While her mother pressures her to settle into a traditional family life, Kanitha harbours quiet dreams of music and dance. Her deep devotion to her ailing father comes to light when she takes him on a nostalgic road trip to relive a cherished childhood memory.

Director Seok tells this simple, moving story unhurriedly, employing a meditative rhythm and hypnotic visuals that border on the dreamlike. Here, sound and music do not merely accompany the narrative; instead, as Kanitha retreats into her own little world, the auditory and visual landscapes merge to transport the audience into a unique sensory space. This lyrical form of storytelling operates at a dreamlike remove, defined by beautifully textured songs and boundless, inventive instrumentation.

Blending music, dance, and fantasy, this striking cinematic experiment invites audiences to wander through Phnom Penh alongside Kanitha. Immerse yourself in this captivating ‘concept album’ on screen—a testament to the fresh, imaginative voices shaping contemporary Asian cinema.

The screening on 30 August will be followed by a talk with associate producer Davy Chou and actress Kanitha Tith, moderated by M+ Curator of Moving Image Chanel Kong in English.