Backdrop preview Shangri-La backdrop
Shangri-La

Shangri-La (2021)

Feb 23, 2021 10m Drama Romance

It’s California, during the Great Depression. A woman is confiding her most intimate thoughts in a church confessional, while the man on the other side listens silently and intently. But this is no ordinary religious ritual seeking salvation. The woman — a second generation Filipino farmhand — is rapt in roleplay reverie, her sensuous words aimed at her white American lover, during a historic period when such interracial relationships were forbidden by state law. The confession box transforms into a romantic time machine, ecstatic and melancholic, traveling into alternate futures. She manifests as multiple, dazzling women, and they can love freely. This is the 21st commission from Miu Miu Women's Tales​ series.

Directed by Isabel Sandoval

Cast

View All
Isabel Sandoval
View Profile
Isabel Sandoval

as

Matthew Fifer
View Profile
Matthew Fifer

as

Crew

Director
  • Isabel Sandoval
Writer
  • Isabel Sandoval
Producer
  • Tani Cohen
  • Julien Lemaitre
  • Robert K. Rock

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Shangri-La examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Isabel Sandoval brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Shangri-La took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 10 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 33 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
  • The costume department created over 102 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2021, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: February 23, 2021
  • Runtime: 10m

Similar Movies