Chanel Assists in Realizing Singaporean Filmmaker Eric Khoo's 'Spirit World'

The French luxury brand endorses the development of Khoo’s latest film, including Catherine Deneuve, so perpetuating its heritage of supporting cinema.

Catherine Deneuve stars in Eric Khoo’s feature film, ‘Spirit World’, supported by Chanel (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier)

Chanel continues its heritage as a champion of cinema by supporting Singaporean director Eric Khoo's latest film, Spirit World. Khoo's feature film, which debuted at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival in South Korea this week, features a distinguished cast, including French movie legend Catherine Deneuve and Japanese actors Yutaka Takenouchi, Masaaki Sakai, and Jun Fubuki.

Spirit World chronicles the odyssey of musician Claire Emery, portrayed by Deneuve, as she journeys to Tokyo and unexpectedly encounters the conclusion of her terrestrial existence. She metamorphoses into a 'yokai' (a spirit in Japanese folklore) and embarks on a journey into the afterlife.

Chanel provided financial support for the production of Khoo's film, filmed in Japan. The French luxury brand's endorsement of Spirit World is evident on screen, since Chanel's garments and accessories were provided to costume designer Pascaline Chavanne for actress Maiya Goshima's clothing. Catherine Deneuve, the film's star, also adorned herself with Chanel's magnificent jewellery pieces.

Japanese actor Yutaka Takenouchi and Catherine Deneuve in ‘Spirit World’ (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier)

The French actress, renowned for her performances in films such as Belle de Jour and The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, has strong affiliations with the maison, having formerly represented the Chanel N°5 fragrance. Deneuve also featured in the 2024 film Marcello Mio, for which she donned ensembles designed for her by the maison.

Chanel has a longstanding tradition of endorsing the film industry, initiated by creator Coco Chanel's costume designs for MGM films in the 1930s. The French design house collaborates with the Busan International Film Festival and has outfitted prominent cinematic figures for events like as the Cannes Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival. In recent years, Chanel has notably endorsed the endeavors of female directors by providing financial assistance and costumes for films such as Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla, and Maïwenn’s Jeanne Du Barry.

Japanese actress Maiya Goshima, clad in a Chanel outfit and earrings, in ‘Spirit World’ (Photo: Laurent Champoussin. MI. Movies, Zhao Wei, Knockonwood, Wild Orange, Fourier)

Chanel's partnership with Eric Khoo's Spirit World signifies a pivotal milestone for Singaporean cinema. Khoo established Singaporean cinema's prominence with his initial features, Mee Pook Man (1995) and 12 Storeys (1997). He was the inaugural Singaporean director invited to showcase his films at prominent international film festivals. Khoo's inaugural animated feature, Tatsumi, was showcased at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival; in 2017, he participated as a juror for the festival's short film category.

Chanel will persist in fortifying its connections with Asian cinema. In November, the maison will collaborate with acclaimed Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda for a series of discussions in Tokyo, with notable appearances by Chanel ambassador Tilda Swinton.

Below, watch a trailer for Eric Khoo's Spirit World.