thai director Nawapol Thamrongrattanarit is set to unveil his most intimate project yet at the Venice Film Festival with “Human Resource.” This thought-provoking drama delves into the global trend of declining birth rates through the perspective of a pregnant HR manager.
Diversity has exclusively released a notable clip from the film, wich centers on Fren (Prapamonton eiamchan), an HR professional who is one month pregnant and grappling with life-altering decisions over the next two months. As she interviews young job seekers, their discussions reflect her internal struggle about bringing a new life into an uncertain future.
“Eight years ago, I created ‘Die Tomorrow,’ which examined themes of mortality. Now at 41, I find myself contemplating parenthood,” Thamrongrattanarit shares with Diversity. “I began researching birth rates and discovered alarming statistics about their decline worldwide. It’s clear that many people are pondering this issue—considering parenthood and what it means for our lives.”
A Return to Realism in Storytelling
The filmmaker, known for Thailand’s Oscar entry “Happy old Year” and Busan award-winner “36,” describes “Human Resource” as a return to realism after exploring more abstract concepts in his previous works. “I wanted to capture the everyday experiences of people in today’s world,” he explains. “It was important for me to portray these routines authentically within the film.”
the narrative’s foundation stems from Thamrongrattanarit’s personal inquiries regarding parenthood intertwined with his interest in human resources. “I have friends working as HR managers who meet countless candidates during recruitment processes,” he notes. “They witness various emotions—fear,uncertainty,aspirations—in those they interview.” He emphasizes that this HR supervisor has unique insights into people’s lives but also carries home many questions after each day.
In this film,job interviews serve as metaphorical dialogues between Fren and her unborn child. “The character is one month pregnant; there’s a new life within her,” Thamrongrattanarit elaborates. “This child hears these interviews; they symbolize broader societal questions—what does it mean to exist in this world? How do people think and act amidst hope or despair?”
The director intentionally designed the film to encourage viewers’ introspection rather than providing straightforward answers. “I offer less narrative detail and more space for contemplation,” he states. “Each scene unfolds slowly; characters often express little emotion because these questions are complex.” His goal is for audiences to engage deeply while watching.
While declining birth rates resonate globally, Thamrongrattanarit acknowledges their particular significance within Asian cultures: “In many Asian societies, discussing motherhood or childbirth can be considered taboo,” he observes. “For Thai viewers specifically, I hope this film opens up conversations around these topics.”
“Human Resource” premieres at Venice during an remarkable year for Thai cinema following accolades received by films like “A Priceless Ghost,” which won top honors at Cannes Critics’ Week. After its debut in Venice, it will also screen at the Busan International Film Festival before its theatrical release slated for Q1 2026 in thailand.
this drama is produced by Thamrongrattanarit alongside Pacharin Surawatanapongs under Happy Ending Movie and presented by GDH 559—the same team behind hits like “How to make Millions Before Grandma Dies.” The cast includes Paopetch Charoensook, Chanakan Rattana-udom, and Pimmada Chaisaksoen.
You can watch the trailer here: