In a striking blend of existential exploration and pulsating beats, Oliver Laxe’s latest film, *Sirāt*, ventures into the depths of rave culture, showcasing the emotional and spiritual undertones of a community often overlooked by mainstream cinema. Set against the backdrop of a desert festival in Morocco, the film unravels the quest of a family searching for their missing daughter amidst the chaos of an unfolding conflict. As it prepares for its UK release on 27 February, anticipation builds for what is poised to be a major contender at the upcoming Oscars.
A Unique Festival Experience
The film opens with a vibrant scene: a group of enthusiastic partygoers assembling a sound system in the Moroccan sands. Laxe, a director known for his innovative storytelling, chose to include real ravers in this sequence, creating a genuine atmosphere that resonates with authenticity. Many of these participants travelled from across Europe, embodying the spirit of the rave scene. Among them was Sebastian Vaughan, known as 69db, a prominent figure in the legendary Spiral Tribe collective, which championed free parties in the 1990s.
Laxe describes his approach to filmmaking as a reversal of traditional norms: “In film, reality is usually made to adapt to the rules of cinema. But we do the opposite: we adapt cinema to reality.” The director embraced the ravers’ insistence that the music should play nonstop for three days, a decision that would shape the film’s narrative and emotional core.
The Essence of Rave Culture
While *Sirāt* features a straightforward family narrative at its core, the film gradually shifts focus to delve into the metaphysical aspects of rave culture. Laxe perceives raving not merely as a form of entertainment but as an exploration of mortality and ego dissolution. He articulates this perspective by stating, “If you die on a dancefloor, it’s considered a mythological death.” His work reflects an understanding of spiritual traditions, drawing on influences from Sufism and gestalt psychotherapy.
The film has garnered significant attention for its portrayal of death and transcendence. Laxe clarifies that this representation is not intended to be morbid but rather a reflection of shedding superficial identities to attain true liberation. He references scholar Joseph Campbell, asserting that understanding one’s mortality opens the door to a more expansive existence: “It’s like a triumphant death.”
Soundscapes of Emotion
Integral to the film’s emotional resonance is its score, crafted by renowned electronic musician David Letellier, also known as Kangding Ray. With a background steeped in experimental sound and a commitment to the underground ethos of electronic music, Letellier’s work for *Sirāt* was transformative. He describes his creative process as sculpting sound: “I take sounds and I carve them and I polish them or cut them or destroy them or explode them.” The resulting soundtrack mirrors the film’s journey, evolving from intense electronic rhythms to haunting ambient soundscapes.
As the narrative unfolds, we see the character Luis, a father grappling with personal tragedy, find solace in the act of dancing amidst the chaos. Laxe poignantly notes, “The body has memory of the pain…but also the pain of your lineage, your family, and the pain of the world.” This moment encapsulates the film’s exploration of how dance can serve as a means of healing and connection.
A Film for Our Times
*Sirāt* is not merely a film; it is a profound exploration of human experience and community through the lens of rave culture. With its unique narrative style and thought-provoking themes, it invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery, connection, and transcendence. As audiences prepare to immerse themselves in this cinematic experience, the film stands as a testament to the enduring power of music and community in the face of life’s complexities.
Why it Matters
The release of *Sirāt* marks a significant moment in cinema, as it highlights the often-marginalised world of rave culture while addressing universal themes of loss, identity, and liberation. In an era where the connections between people are increasingly mediated by technology, Laxe’s film serves as a reminder of the raw, transformative power of shared experiences. By spotlighting the emotional depths of raving, *Sirāt* challenges viewers to reconsider the narratives surrounding dance music and its role in fostering community and healing in a tumultuous world.
