SINGAPORE – Local film Wonderland starring Singaporean actors Mark Lee and Peter Yu has won an award at this year’s Palm Springs International Film Festival.
It won the Regional Jury Award, which is given to the film that most promotes understanding and acceptance among people.
The film is set in Singapore in the 1980s, at a time when studying abroad was a luxury that most people could not afford. He plays Lee as a single working father. .
Yoo stars as the default “leader” of a makeshift social club, finding solace in helping Lee’s character, who longs for the same relationship with his estranged daughter.
Films eligible for the award were judged by a jury of Palm Springs residents, who said in a statement on January 14 that they chose Wonderland as the winner because it “leaves room for imagination.” “It reveals a multilayered story about a universal and timeless theme.”
“Wonderland” was directed by Singaporean Chai Yi-wei, 47, who said the award “speaks volumes about how this subject matter affects people from all walks of life.” .
Director Chai, whose previous films include Blood Ties (2009) and Pinafore (2013), added about the award:
“It’s a rare opportunity to direct a production like this. I salute all the team members in Singapore.”
Producer and screenwriter Michelle Chan, 50, said: “Winning the Local Jury Award at this prestigious film festival was completely unexpected, as it was a small Singapore project that touched the hearts of Palm Springs residents.” We’re talking about independent, non-English, Hokkien-language films.” .
“This victory is proof that unless you believe in something, work hard, and hold on to your passion, the world conspires to reward you.”
Wonderland is produced by Mokachai Laboratories and mm2 Entertainment with support from the Singapore Film Commission. The film had its world premiere at the 24th San Diego Asian Film Festival on November 8, 2023.
The 35th Palm Springs International Film Festival opens on January 4, 2024 and runs through January 15. 184 films from over 70 countries were screened.