A Balinese Trance Seance 1981
A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) offers a rare, intimate glimpse into Balinese spiritual traditions through the lens of director Patsy Asch.
Director: Patsy Asch
Frequently Asked Questions
What is A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) about?
This documentary follows a Balinese family as they consult a medium, Jero, to uncover the cause of their son's death. Through a trance seance, ancestors and the deceased son's spirit reveal the tragic circumstances—attributed to witchcraft—and guide the family toward proper funeral rites.
Who directed A Balinese Trance Seance?
A Balinese Trance Seance was directed by Patsy Asch, a filmmaker known for her work on cultural and anthropological documentaries.
Who stars in A Balinese Trance Seance?
Director Patsy Asch leads the production, with the central figure being Jero, the Balinese medium, and the grieving family seeking answers through the seance.
Is A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) worth watching?
For those fascinated by cultural documentaries and spiritual traditions, this 30-minute film offers a unique and moving perspective. While not widely rated, its depth and authenticity make it a compelling watch, especially for anthropology or documentary enthusiasts.
How long is A Balinese Trance Seance?
A Balinese Trance Seance runs approximately 30 minutes.
About A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) — A 30-minute documentary on Balinese spiritual rituals and family healing
A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) offers a rare, intimate glimpse into Balinese spiritual traditions through the lens of director Patsy Asch. This documentary captures a moving trance seance where a family seeks answers about their son's untimely death, believed to be caused by witchcraft. As the medium Jero enters a trance state, the voices of ancestors and the deceased son emerge, revealing unsettling truths and guiding the family toward proper rituals, including cremation. The film balances solemnity with cultural richness, immersing viewers in the rituals, incense, and mantras that define this sacred practice.
Unlike other films centered on spectacle, Asch's documentary emphasizes the emotional and spiritual depth of the seance, portraying it as a deeply personal and transformative experience. The intimate household setting contrasts with grand communal ceremonies, highlighting the individual's connection to the divine. With its focus on grief, healing, and tradition, A Balinese Trance Seance (1981) serves as both a cultural document and a poignant exploration of loss.