Locarno Winners Reunite for Jesse Ball Adaptation ‘Silence Once Begun’

Singaporean director Yeo Siew Hua has announced his next project, an adaptation of Jesse Ball’s novel “Silence Once Begun”. The film follows a journalist whose wife falls silent, and his investigation into Oda Sotatsu, a man accused of multiple disappearances but who refuses to speak. This exploration of silence as a powerful force in a world filled with distractions is timely indeed.

Yeo’s own words on being drawn to the novel’s themes – “what it means to keep one’s silence and also in keeping our commitments” – highlight the tension between the importance of speech and the value of quiet contemplation. The novel itself has been described by Ball as a “social critique” that examines how people respond when faced with situations where speaking out is not an option.

Set against the backdrop of Japan, a country known for its reverence for tradition and silence in the face of adversity, Yeo’s decision to adapt this novel comes on the heels of his successful collaboration with producer Fran Borgia on “A Land Imagined”, which won the Golden Leopard at Locarno in 2018. This new project promises to be just as ambitious, with a wide-ranging co-production spanning multiple countries and continents.

Yeo’s ability to navigate complex cultural narratives is undeniable, having worked extensively in Asia and previously directing “Stranger Eyes”, the first Singaporean title to earn a Venice competition berth. His collaboration with Borgia will undoubtedly bring a depth of understanding to this sensitive subject matter.

The international co-production model used by Akanga Film Asia has proven successful in the past, with films like “Renoir” and “Amoeba” gaining critical acclaim. With this project, Borgia aims to create a film that honors the novel’s atmosphere while also speaking to the power of silence.

Ball’s own words on the relevance of his novel are striking – “the tale is even more timely now than when it was written”. The themes explored in “Silence Once Begun” are universal, and this adaptation promises to be a powerful exploration of what it means to remain silent in the face of adversity.

The film industry’s growing interest in exploring complex social issues through narrative is a welcome trend. With films like “Parasite” and “The Square”, we have seen how thought-provoking cinema can spark important conversations about our shared humanity. “Silence Once Begun” will be just another chapter in this ongoing conversation, one that invites viewers to reflect on the role of silence in a world filled with distractions.

Given the scope of this international co-production, the production schedule for 2028 is ambitious. With multiple countries and partners involved, Yeo will face significant logistical challenges in bringing this story to life. However, his experience working with complex narratives has prepared him well for this challenge.

The themes explored in “Silence Once Begun” are deeply rooted in Japanese culture, where silence is often seen as a sign of respect. This reverence for quiet contemplation is something that resonates across cultures, and Yeo’s adaptation promises to be a nuanced exploration of this complex issue.

From the Buddhist concept of “mu” (emptiness) to the Japanese art of “ma” (pauses between actions), the value placed on quiet reflection transcends borders. The cultural significance of silence cannot be overstated.

As we eagerly anticipate Yeo’s adaptation, we can expect a film that explores the complexities of silence in a world filled with noise. The themes examined in “Silence Once Begun” will undoubtedly resonate with audiences worldwide, inviting viewers to reflect on their own relationship with quiet contemplation. With its ambitious production schedule and international co-production model, this project promises to be one to watch.