Ananth Subramaniam’s Bleat! is as sincerely reflective as it is a delectably off-the-wall film. Just before a ceremonial slaughter, an elderly couple discovers that their male goat is pregnant and hence inappropriate for sacrifice. Is the goat gender dysphoric, intersex, or bisexual? While the man confesses to his ignorance about queerness, the woman is convinced that the goat’s proclivity to “play both sides of the field” is a sign of the end of the world.
The wacky narrative, satirical tone, and cheeky lines are rooted in the Malaysian-Tamil community, culture, religious practices, and music while also critiquing its dogmas, rigidity, and restrictiveness. Evocatively shot in black and white, Bleat! is a highly original, idiosyncratic take on identity issues and sexual orientation through the device of the goat. The essential absurdity lies not so much in the confusions of the animal but the befuddlement of the humans surrounding it. A delightful, engrossing, and thought-provoking watch.
Ananth Subramaniam
Ananth Subramaniam is a Malaysian Tamil filmmaker and co-founder of Idio Sync, a production company dedicated to developing Tamil-infused stories. He holds an MA in Filmmaking from Kingston University London and was selected for the 2020 Locarno Open Doors program as well as the Southeast Asian Film Lab. His most recent credits include The House of Brick and Stone (Fantasia Film Festival, BIFAN) and Liar Land (Special Mention, Locarno Film Festival). Currently in development, his debut feature The Passport has secured prestigious support from Berlinale Talents Tokyo and Cine Qua Non Lab, and earned top honors at BIFAN and BAFF.
