Synopsis
Since Antiquity, the Sonepur fair in the Indian state of Bihar has been the largest animal market in Asia. Mobilizing all the showmen of this state renowned for its indomitability, it is the place of expression par excellence for Bihari popular culture. The characters in Kings of the Wind & Electric Queens are the custodians of this culture. Like the different figures in a tarot deck, they are the emblematic faces of the fair: the Rider, the Exorcist, the Dancer, the Stuntman or the Mahut (elephant trainer). Each will perform on the fair’s vast stage, for the pleasure of one-day spectators, a crowd of ecstatic pilgrims in search of thrills and signs of fortune.
A word from Tënk
From the electrifying atmosphere of the Sonepur Fair, the directors extract the essence of a thrilling and electric film. Kings of the Wind & Electric Queens is a true hallucinatory trip, where the music and soundtrack combine to transcend the visuals. The film captivates with its vibrant colors and syncopated editing. In the opening sequence, we learn that the film's title is inspired by the names of two racehorses that the Sonepur fairground riders will compete with. These horses, it’s said, are capable of “electrocuting anyone who crosses their path,” and the filmmakers succeed in achieving that same feat.
Pascal Catheland
Filmmaker
