SunStrong Entertainment has always been highlighting social issues, as exemplified through the Scam Prevention Short Film Contest initiated last year, serving as an essential platform.
Following a six-month-long intense competition and selection process, the contest wrapped up with an award ceremony in Beijing, China, on June 17 this year, which saw winners taking home cash prizes totalling US$128,000 (RM600,000).
Moreover, the top ten finalists in the Open Category were given an opportunity to submit a film proposal to SunStrong Entertainment, where the winner will receive a US$1 million (RM4.73 million) investment.
After a careful selection by SunStrong Entertainment that took four months, the investment will go to “He Sang A Dirge” by Loh Din Yung, whose work titled “Bad Day” won second place at the Scam Prevention Short Film Contest.
Inspired by actual events, “He Sang A Dirge” is based on a fraudulent chain of tuition centres in Malaysia, which offers fake degrees as a scheme to recruit tutors. Although known for its high student enrollment rate, the chain has a dark side unbeknownst to many, making the gripping script worthy of anticipation.
SunStrong Entertainment founder Jment Lim said that from the Scam Prevention Short Film Contest to the US$1 million investment for making movies of public interest, their ultimate goal is to draw more people’s attention to scams, bringing about a safer and more harmonious society.
Supporting local film industry growth
SunStrong Entertainment’s investment in the local film industry has been creating a buzz. “Snow In Midsummer”, directed by Chong Keat Aun, is also an investment of SunStrong Entertainment, which recently received a “Special Mention Musa Cinema and Arts Award” at the Venice International Film Festival. The film is also nominated for 9 categories at the 60th Golden Horse Award, including Best Narrative Feature, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and a nomination for Wan Fang for Best Supporting Actress.
Another film invested by SunStrong Entertainment is “Pavane for an Infant”, also directed by Chong Keat Aun. This film received an investment of RM6.75 million and focuses on social issues that disproportionately affect women, such as out-of-wedlock pregnancy, abortion, and sexual assault. The aim of the film is to raise public awareness of these issues.
SunStrong Entertainment’s founder, Jment Lim, expressed pride and joy at the international achievements of “Snow in Midsummer”. Lim emphasized that SunStrong Entertainment will continue to support local film and TV show production, delivering positive, high-quality, and meaningful works to the audience.
The local film industry is gearing up for exciting times ahead, with “Pavane for an Infant” and “He Sang a Dirge” set to be showcased at major film festivals worldwide next year.
