Following its prestigious victory at the Cannes Critics’ Week, where it won the Grand Prix, director Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke’s highly original feature, A Useful Ghost, has unveiled its first trailer and fantastic poster. This surreal, darkly comedic drama explores grief, social anxiety, and life after death through the lens of a haunted household appliance.
A Love That Defies Logic
Cineverse’s A Useful Ghost introduces us to March. He is a man consumed by mourning after the tragic and premature passing of his wife, Nat. Nat’s death was caused by the severe dust pollution plaguing their community. The film’s premise immediately undercuts the somber tone: Nat’s spirit has returned by possessing a vacuum cleaner.
March welcomes the chance to rekindle his relationship with this ghost; however, his family is deeply disturbed. They outright reject their unconventional romance. The situation is further complicated by the family’s factory, which has been shut down due to the death and haunting of a worker.
Desperate to prove their love and overcome her rejection, Nat volunteers for a bizarre mission: to cleanse the factory. To become what her title suggests—A Useful Ghost—she must first master her new powers. The film explores themes of social utility, environmental decay, and the desperate lengths people go to for acceptance.
Acclaim and Distinguished Talent
Director Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke has established himself as a compelling new voice in international cinema. He leverages the fantastic to discuss grounded, contemporary issues like environmental health and labor rights.
The film’s cast includes Davika Hoorne, Witsarut Himmarat, Apasiri Nitibhon, Wanlop Rungkumjud, and Wisarut Homhuan.
The trailer offers a first glimpse into the film’s unique visual style. It’s a delicate balance between genuine tragedy (Nat’s death) and the absurd comedy of a supernatural, cleaning-obsessed love story.
If you are looking for a fresh take on the paranormal, A Useful Ghost is a must-see film. Watch the trailer now and take a look at the frame-worthy new poster below.
A Useful Ghost
