Move to Heaven (2023)

A mysterious, charming short film

This mysterious, charming Thai short film is another proof that Youtube's suggestions aren't completely useless sometimes. I had never heard of this movie when it popped up on my screen, and as it's quite short I thought that watching it wouldn't waste too much of my time, and alas, not only didn't I waste any time, but I really enjoyed watching the movie.

It tells the story of Than (Jittipat Suwannaluck) who can talk to ghosts, and Phop (Manutsawin Mokthong), a wandering spirit who is trying to find his ex-girlfriend Kongkwan to find his peace. Than is reluctant at first, but then helps Phop, and during the search the two boys get closer and at two different stages even confess their love to each other. Finally, Than finds out that Kongkwan died 40 years ago, obviously about at the same time as Phop died, and when Phop and Than find Kongkwan's grave, Phop finally disappears.

The abstract of the plot sounds quite sad, and the ending is not exactly a happy one, but the movie isn't all that sad because there are some comedic moments when Than has to explain what a mobile phone is, or when Phop is surprised that ”a TV can paint”.

Although the movie has a few minor technical flaws, e.g. a few sound issues and one or two editorial bumps, the overall quality is good, with a reasonable cinematography and a beautiful soundtrack that relies very much on classical music which creates a calm atmosphere.

What I liked in particular is the acting of the two leads. Although they are apparently rookies, and very young, their acting is really nice, and both guys are very handsome, too.

The movie is not promoted as a ”BL movie”, and if you define ”BL” as a series of typical tropes, then this is not BL. On the other hand, what can you call it when two handsome, young, male protagonists say ”I love you” to each other? They don't kiss, but is a kiss really necessary to prove that two boys love each other? I guess not, and that's why I would say that this is a BL movie indeed.

The Thai title is a pun which is not reflected by the English translation – depending on the spelling it can mean ”happiness” or ”rest in peace”. Like in many Thai productions, the English subtitles are not always correct, but at least they are there.

To sum up – if you have a quarter of an hour to spare and would like to watch a short film that's not all happiness, but charming and a little mysterious, this is one for you. I actually like it a lot.

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