A Monk’s Awakening

Director: Lou Ma Ho
Starring: Chäu Belle Dinh, Malik Faraoun, Jim-Adhi Limas, Isooji
Genre: Drama

In-a-nutshell:
Escaping from an intimidating samurai by promising to return once he has delivered a sacred sword to his master, a young monk (Chäu Belle Dinh) completes his journey - and is stunned when his master informs him he must keep his promise. Instructed not with helpful fighting techniques, but with orders on how to die properly - sword above head, eyes closed and being as still as Buddha - the young monk must decide whether to flee the country and the spiritual path he's chosen or follow through with his master's seemingly sadistic dictum.

Despite the fact the sub-romantic plot between the monk and his crush Isooji is left virtually undeveloped, A Monk's Awakening is an impressive effort with its beautiful cinematography - ranging from the lush emerald green forests to the master's stark and sterile black-and-white dojo - and a noteworthy performance from Dinh who expertly exudes an undeniable sense of pathos through his kind-hearted character.

Festival Appearances Include:
2005 Raindance International Film Festival: Best International Short
2005 Cleveland International Film Festival: Best Action Film
2005 New Delhi International Film Festival: Best Short Film
2007 Neston International Film Festival: Second Prize for Best Short Film

Upcoming Screenings:
Action On Film Festival: July 27-29