Exploring the idea of the memory of objects, and how through chance and coincidence, infinitely small decisions can produce new life.
‘Lichen’ is a calming film without dialogue. Rather we are immersed with exquisite photography and a tender audio. The image tells this formidable story of how the smallest decisions can in time turn into a much bigger event. But the unorthodox way of telling the story is where the hidden beauty lies in this film.
The idea for ‘Lichen’ came in 2001 when I was completing my Honours degree in film and I was researching for my thesis project a documentary on quantum physics. I read a paper on microtubules, a protein found within human physiology which proposed that they could act like a quantum hard drive within the body, storing our memories. So I took that idea further and thought about inanimate objects storing memories – specifically the keepsakes we hold onto from a relationship – and the stories they would tell. These keepsakes would act as a roadmap charting the course of how two people met, fell in love and sired children – the ultimate expression of their union.
Ten years later, Kevin Lim is working as a director in the advertising industry, where he met a class of talented filmmakers such as producer April Tafe, DOP Aaron McLisky, editor Sammie Lee and 1st AD Steven Kirkby, where they decided to create their first short film together.
We were all itching to make a short film, to work on something purely for the love of the creative act. So we formed Soda Honey Films, my wonderful sister gave us half the money and we got to work. It was our first short and a bit of an experiment yet upon completion, it was ignition switch to making us realise what we want to do with the rest of our lives.
Surely a motivation for all filmmakers, and a good inspiration to think outside of the box on ways of telling a story. Simply joyful film to watch, despite its rather sad ending.
