Exploring the Layers of "A Useful Ghost": A Thai Cinematic Debut

"A Useful Ghost," the debut feature from Thai filmmaker Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, intricately weaves a narrative that begins as a whimsical sex comedy but evolves into a poignant political commentary. The film centers on March (Wisarut Himmarat), who reconnects with the spirit of his deceased wife, Nat (Davika Hoorne), embodied in a vacuum cleaner. This unusual premise serves as a vehicle for exploring themes of loss, memory, and the socio-political landscape of Thailand.

AV Club

The film opens with March purchasing a vacuum cleaner, only to discover that it is haunted by Nat's spirit, who died from respiratory disease. The narrative quickly escalates as March's family, particularly his mother Suman (Apasiri Nitibhon), attempts to sever his connection with Nat, fearing the implications of her ghostly presence. The story oscillates between absurdity and serious drama, as the vacuum cleaner becomes a symbol of both love and the unresolved issues surrounding Thailand's labor history, particularly the plight of deceased factory workers whose spirits haunt the machines they once operated.

New York Times

Boonbunchachoke's film is rich with allegorical significance. It addresses the ghosts of Thailand's past—unsolved murders and societal injustices—while simultaneously critiquing the government's attempts to erase these memories. The narrative suggests that the spirits of the deceased are not merely vengeful but also serve as reminders of the struggles faced by the living. As Nat learns to discern the dreams of dissidents, her role transforms into that of a "useful ghost," highlighting the intersection of personal and political narratives.

‘A Useful Ghost’ Review: When a Vacuum Cleaner Becomes a Ghostly Lover

While the film's absurd premise has garnered praise for its originality, some critics argue that its ambitious narrative may become convoluted. The blend of humor and heavy themes might not resonate with all audiences, leading to a perception that the film occasionally loses focus amidst its many twists and turns.

‘A Useful Ghost’ Review: When a Vacuum Cleaner Becomes a Ghostly Lover

In promotional materials, Boonbunchachoke emphasizes that "Thailand is full of ghosts," underscoring the cultural significance of spirits in Thai society. He describes "A Useful Ghost" as an ode to the memories that linger in the public consciousness, particularly those inconvenient for authorities wishing to suppress them.

New York Times

• “Beginning as one thing and ending as quite another, this dazzling first feature from the Thai filmmaker Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke uses the frame of a sad-sweet sex comedy to weave together political allegory, supernatural mystery and more than one tender love story.” — The New York Times

New York Times

• “At the same time, the film’s serious, subdued, and melancholic tone—along with that hushed manner of speaking typical of many Asian dramas—makes it clear that director Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke is aiming for something beyond the initial absurd conceit.” — Micropsiacine

‘A Useful Ghost’ Review: When a Vacuum Cleaner Becomes a Ghostly Lover

• “The Thai director’s debut feature operates in a space of illusions, lost and rediscovered dreams, immersing itself in the inner worlds of its characters as it tries to make sense of their desires, grief, and regrets.” — Micropsiacine

‘A Useful Ghost’ Review: When a Vacuum Cleaner Becomes a Ghostly Lover

As "A Useful Ghost" continues to gain attention in film festivals and critical circles, discussions surrounding its themes of memory, loss, and political critique are expected to deepen. The film's unique approach may inspire further exploration of supernatural narratives in contemporary cinema, particularly within Southeast Asian contexts.

‘A Useful Ghost’ Review: When a Vacuum Cleaner Becomes a Ghostly Lover