Catherine Deneuve stars in Eric Khoo’s film ‘Spirit World,’ supported by Chanel (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier).
Chanel continues its commitment to cinema by supporting Singaporean director Eric Khoo’s new film, ‘Spirit World.’ This feature film premiered at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival in South Korea this week and features a star-studded cast, including French cinema legend Catherine Deneuve, along with Japanese actors Yutaka Takenouchi, Masaaki Sakai, and Jun Fubuki.
‘Spirit World’ tells the story of musician Claire Emery (played by Deneuve) who travels to Tokyo and encounters the end of her mortal life. She transforms into a ‘yokai’ (a spirit from Japanese folklore) and embarks on a journey into the afterlife.
Chanel provided financial support for Khoo’s film, which was filmed in Japan. The French luxury brand’s endorsement for ‘Spirit World’ is also evident on screen, as Chanel’s outfits and accessories were lent to costume designer Pascaline Chavanne for actress Maiya Goshima’s wardrobe. Additionally, Chanel’s exquisite jewelry creations were worn by lead actress Catherine Deneuve.
Japanese actor Yutaka Takenouchi and Catherine Deneuve in ‘Spirit World’ (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier).
The renowned French actress, known for her roles in classics like ‘Belle de Jour’ and ‘The Umbrellas of Cherbourg,’ has a strong connection with the maison, having previously been the face of Chanel N°5. Deneuve also appeared in the 2024 film ‘Marcello Mio,’ wearing outfits crafted by the brand.
Chanel has a longstanding history of supporting the film industry, dating back to the 1930s when founder Coco Chanel designed costumes for MGM movies. The French fashion house is a partner of the Busan International Film Festival and has dressed numerous iconic stars for events such as the Cannes and Venice Film Festivals. Recently, Chanel has notably backed projects by female directors by providing financial assistance and costumes for films like Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie,’ Sofia Coppola’s ‘Priscilla,’ and Maïwenn’s ‘Jeanne Du Barry.’
Japanese actress Maiya Goshima, wearing Chanel clothing and earrings, in ‘Spirit World’ (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier).
Chanel’s collaboration with Eric Khoo’s ‘Spirit World’ is a significant step for Singaporean cinema. Khoo helped put Singaporean cinema on the global stage with his early films, ‘Mee Pook Man’ (1995) and ’12 Storeys’ (1997). He was the first Singaporean director to showcase his work at notable international film festivals. His animated film, ‘Tatsumi,’ was featured at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival, and in 2017, he was a jury member for the festival’s short film competition.
Chanel aims to further strengthen its connection with Asian cinema. In November, the maison will collaborate with award-winning Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda for a series of talks in Tokyo, which will include special appearances by Chanel ambassador Tilda Swinton.
Below, watch the trailer for Eric Khoo’s ‘Spirit World.’
This article originally appeared in Grazia Singapore.
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