For the second feature by Itthi Sunthorn Wichailak, whose feature debut Look Bar was made 10 years ago, three of Thailands′s major production companies collaborated with high profile actors and composers. The Overture is a large scale piece based on the true story of a real life Thai traditional musician, ranad virtuoso Sorn. It describes the artisť′s passion and belief during difficult times. The Overture showcases the traditional musical instrument from the angles of the present and the past. Despite the grand scale of the film, the most impressive moments belong to the ranad performance sequences. These are shot with special care and are admirable: full shots of real artists infuse genuine sentiment to the film and the ultimate freedom to the camera. The director′s endeavor to visualize the rhythm of Thai traditional music through various angles, speedy editing, and beautiful camera movements owes to the playing scenes. The ethnographical colors in the frame are now one of the most vivid characteristics of Thai cinema. (Kang So-won)