RICE FIELDS X HIP-HOP BEATS Sa Pa, Vietnam
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Sa Pa, Vietnam, in an artistic, unexpected way. In this 4K cinematic journey, I combine the ancient tradition of rice harvesting with the modern rhythm of hip-hop, featuring the track "Sex, Love, and Money" by Mos Def. It’s a bold blend that brings the beauty of everyday life in Sa Pa into a contemporary light.
During my stay at Hoa's Homestay in Sa Pa, I watched the rice fields transform as farmers worked from dawn to dusk. There was a rhythm and poetry to their movements, which inspired the editing and music choices in this film. Their coordinated efforts, combined with the golden beauty of the fields, presented a natural harmony that was captivating to capture on film.
Using my Blackmagic 6K camera and vintage lenses like the Helios 44-2 and Pentagon 135mm, I’ve created a visual experience that merges nostalgia with modern beats. These lenses are my favourite to use at the moment, instead of relying on mist filters or software to replicate an analog look, I prefer to shoot wide open on both of these vintage lenses to get that otherworldly surreal aesthetic. The timeless work of the farmers is showcased in a fresh light, with dynamic hip-hop rhythms giving this project a unique voice.
These scenes were actually only a few days before Typhoon Yogi, a devastating typhoon that ripped through a lot of South East Asia, sadly killing hundreds and destroying a lot of the local people’s livelihood. I ended up being stranded in Sa Pa for a week due to all of the roads being shut from the landslides and there was no way out. It was a strange thing to experience first hand as it’s the type of event you usually observe on the news from the other side of the world. My heart goes out to those affected.
At Your Life Is Cinema, I aim to show how every ordinary moment can be an extraordinary story. By blending stunning visuals and contemporary music, I invite you to see the world through my lens, where life and art merge. Subscribe to my channel for more cinematic travel experiences and cultural explorations from around the world.
