The Singapore Film Commission (SFC) is marking its silver jubilee by treating the public to free screenings of 25 locally made films and short films. From Aug. 4 to 26, 2023, these films will be showcased at the Esplanade, offering a cinematic treat to audiences of all ages for SFC’s 25th anniversary.
A Family-Friendly Affair at SFC’s 25th Anniversary at Esplanade
The screenings kick off with a variety of films suitable for all family members. These include:
Source: IMDb
“881” (2007), directed by Royston Tan, is a hit musical film based on Singapore’s iconic getai scene. Catch the screening on Aug. 4 at 8 pm at the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade.
Source: Prime Video
“Banting” (2014), directed by Raihan Halim, is a comedy-drama about a young woman from a strict Muslim household who secretly takes up professional wrestling. Don’t miss the screening on Aug. 5 at 8:15 pm at the Esplanade Concourse.
Source: IMDb
“Pop Aye” (2017), directed by Kirsten Tan, tells a touching tale of a disenchanted architect and his long-lost elephant on a journey across Thailand. Join us for the screening on Aug. 9 at 1:30 pm at the Esplanade Recital Studio.
Source: IMDb
“Ilo Ilo” (2013), directed by Anthony Chen, explores the tension between the Lim family and their new Filipino helper, Teresa. Experience this film on Aug. 12 at 8:15 pm at the Esplanade Concourse.
Source: SGIFF
“I Not Stupid” (2002), directed by Jack Neo, is a satirical comedy portraying the struggles of three young children and their families in pursuit of academic excellence in a highly competitive society. Mark your calendars for Aug. 26, 2023, at 8:15 pm at the Esplanade Concourse.
More than Just Kid’s Stuff
While the focus is on family-friendly films, SFC’s 25th-anniversary celebration also caters to mature audiences. Films like “Sandcastle”, “12 Storeys”, and “Ilo Ilo” explore deeper themes such as activism, societal pressures, and family dynamics.
Horror fans are in for a treat with “23:59”, a psychological thriller set on a secluded island, and “The Maid”, a chilling tale of a domestic helper who encounters strange apparitions.
Short Films for Short Attention Spans
Alongside feature films, 15 short films will be aired back-to-back on Aug. 5, 19, and 26, starting from 6:30 pm at the Esplanade Concourse. Some of these include:
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Letter from the Motherland (2017) – Director: He Shuming
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My Father After Dinner (2015) – Director: Gladys Ng
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Ah Ma (2017) – Director: Anthony Chen
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The Flame (2015) – Director: K. Rajagopal
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Moving House (2001) – Director: Tan Pin Pin
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Piece of Meat (2019) – Directors: Jerrold Chong, Huang Junxiang
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The Tiger of 142B (2015) – Directors: Henry and Harry Zhuang
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The Violin (2015) – Director: Ervin Han
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Poles Apart (2017) – Producer: Low Ser En
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The Last Stop (2021) – Director: Bervyn Chua
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Kuo Bo (2016) – Director: Ang Qing Sheng
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Back to One (2021) – Director: Tang Kang Sheng
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Adam (2019) – Director: Shoki Lin
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Permanent Resident (2017) – Director: Nicole Midori Woodford
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Smoke Gets In Your Eyes (2022) – Director: Alvin Lee
SFC’s 25th Anniversary: A Silver Celebration to Remember
This year, SFC’s 25th anniversary is not just a milestone for the commission but a celebration of Singaporean cinema. So, gather your family and friends, mark your calendars, and get ready for a month-long film feast at the Esplanade!
All screenings are free and open to all on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Singaporean storytelling.
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