Cover '阿嬤 Ah Ma' by Chew Boon Wai (Image: BMW Shorties Youtube)

Get ready for a week of cinematic thrills at the BMW Shorties Film Festival 2023 happening in collaboration with Malaysia International Film Festival.

BMW Shorties, the renowned short film competition and creative initiative by BMW Group Malaysia, is set to host an exciting week-long film festival from July 25 to 28, 2023. In conjunction with the Malaysia International Film Festival, this collaborative event offers the public a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of creativity, showcasing various art forms, including music, film, and digital content.

The festivities will commence with screenings of the top 10 finalists’ films at GSC MyTOWN Shopping Centre, allowing audiences to witness the talent and passion of emerging filmmakers. Following this, the BMW Shorties’ Open-Air Cinema & Marketplace will take place at the Central Rooftop Garden in Lalaport BBCC, offering guests a breathtaking view while indulging in the cinematic experience.

Read more: 2023 Cannes Film Festival's Short Film Corner: Malaysian filmmaker Jared Lee in the spotlight

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Above 'RAHASIA' by Syahmi Norsan, grand prize winner of BMW Shorties 2022

The festival’s final night will feature an exclusive preview of RAHASIA, the newest BMW-funded film created by Syahmi Norsan, grand prize winner of last year’s BMW Shorties. The captivating short film explores the intricate subjects of identity, family and heritage, drawing inspiration from the enchanting traditions of the ancient Mah Meri tribe.

Here are the 10 short films that will be screening during the festival.

阿嬤 Ah Ma by Chew Boon Wai

Tatler Asia
Above '阿嬤 Ah Ma' by Chew Boon Wai

Director Chew Boon Wai’s film draws inspiration from Albert Einstein’s words, ‘the only thing that is constant’ is change, by portraying the title character’s journey in the face of changes with no choice but to adapt. Shot in his grandmother’s home, the story is a captivating emotional journey offering a deep and intimate look into loneliness and vulnerability.

Selamat Malam, Dunia! by Putra Adib

This short film explores the profound realm of existentialism and the journey of conquering our deepest fears. The film compellingly urges us to confront our fears head-on and embrace the challenges we face.

TAUGEH 豆记 by U Wang

Based on true events, the short film immerses the audience in a 1997 setting, a time marked by the prevalence of gangsterism in schools. TAUGEH 豆记 masterfully portrays the emotions depicted by the protagonist as he undergoes a transformative journey into young adulthood.

The Missing Trophy by Wong Ga Dong

Wong Ga Dong’s short film is a poignant tale of collaboration between an aspiring filmmaker, Ahmir and celebrated film veteran, Azla, whose chance meeting presents an opportunity of a lifetime.

Don't miss: Award-Winning Malaysian Filmmaker Yih Wen Chen's Stories Start with a Gut Feeling

Aku, Ayah dan Muzik by Mohd Hanif Fikri

Tatler Asia
Above 'Aku, Ayah dan Muzik' by Mohd Hanif Fikri

Sabahan director Mohd Hanif Fikri worked with his family to tell a story of a man searching for meaning and passion. The short film attempts to capture the essence of the age-old saying, ‘We can’t change the past, but we can change the future’.

INMATES by Palani Veloo

This short film tells the story of two pickpockets and a homeless man who are forced to confront their decisions and how they come to terms with becoming their better selves. Through masterful sound design, director Palani Veloo captures the festival’s theme in his work.

The Known Stranger by Bryan Sim

Tatler Asia
Above 'The Known Stranger' by Bryan Sim

The Known Stranger tells the story of Emily and Rou, two individuals caught in the vicious cycle of scamming. Director Bryan Sim attempts to shift the focus of crime to a social issue through this thought-provoking work.

Read also: CIMB tugs at heartstrings with a touching Hari Raya short film

SELALU ADA by Faizal Noar

Director Faizal Noar portrays a relatable facet of life in his short film SELALU ADA, highlighting the transformative power of togetherness and solitude. Through the clever integration of objects, the film brings these elements to life on the screen.

(男孩) Boys by Fabian Loo

Tatler Asia
Above '(男孩) Boys' by Fabian Loo

Actor-turned-director Fabian Loo’s short film captures the pivotal moments in life that shape our identities through the eyes of a young boy and his family, showcasing the ever-changing nature of life.

All Who Leave Go There by Ikram Haizammuri

Tatler Asia
Above 'All Who Leave Go There' by Ikram Haizammuri

This short film focuses on a community that lives in a rural development area who are set in their own ways, ignorant of the outside world. It tells the tale of Ady, who leaves on a journey to find his long-lost brother in Kuala Lumpur and is exposed to new perspectives.

Tickets for the screening are priced at RM10 per session and can be purchased online. For more information, visit the official BMW Shorties Facebook page or its Instagram page.

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Sim Wie Boon
General Manager, Tatler Malaysia, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia

Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.

As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.

Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb