Follow a singer who unexpectedly dies during a tour in Japan, but her spirit lives on as she embarks on a journey in search of humanity in the afterlife. The Singapore premiere, which also marks the film’s Southeast Asian premiere, is being co-presented at the 40th edition of vOilah! French Film Festival and Singapore International Film Festival. Spirit World is a multi-layered film that at its core is about two very human impulses. One, the creative instinct that drives artists, and two, the emotional need for family connections. At the very beginning of the film, we are introduced to three characters who have lost touch with both impulses as defined. Singer-songwriter Claire (Deneuve), Yuzo (Sakai) – a former songwriter turned piano tuner – and his estranged son Hayato (Takenouchi), an anime director whose best recognized work now seems to be behind him. These three characters need decisions and actions to be taken in and after death. life, to find a solution to the unresolved problems of life. Of course, this is a very idealized perspective of the universal question - what happens after we die? The Spirit World answers this question in a very realistic, matter-of-fact way. Putting aside the fear of the unknown and choosing to help the living, the selfless quest that our characters pursue, fulfills their own humble desires. This is the life-affirming message of the Spirit World: that creative impulse can bear fruit in healing family relationships when it is done with selfless intention. Technically, The Spirit World ticks all the boxes for audience engagement. The sympathetic performances draw you in with the beautiful landscapes of Takasaki and Chiba (and the seaside scenery) are pure pleasure to the eyes, and the tribute is paid to the musical artists of the 1960s and 1970s - a golden age of creativity that may never be witnessed again. A sweet and heartfelt filming experience for anyone who has felt the pull of creativity and love for family.