Your Ultimate Guide to MINDS Film Festival 2024 in Singapore

Published on September 16, 2024 | by DSGN arcHive

The MINDS Film Festival 2024 kicked off on 13 September at Shaw Lido Theatres, and what a night it was! Nearly 300 guests gathered to celebrate diversity and inclusion. We were lucky enough to be there, with Ms. Jane Ittogi as the Guest of Honour and a special video from MINDS Patron, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. The evening started with the screening of Poppy, a moving drama about a young woman with a disability. The film’s powerful message about resilience really hit home, sparking some great conversations about how we support people with special needs.

But the night was more than just a film. There were also booths from MINDS Bakers and MINDS Craft, linking the film’s themes to real-world impact. These booths showcased the amazing skills of individuals with intellectual disabilities, highlighting the festival’s focus on empowerment and inclusion. It was an inspiring evening that celebrated everyone’s potential. If you’re keen to support this meaningful cause, grab some popcorn and check out the festival.

Before we dive into the film details, here’s a bit about MINDS and the Singapore Film Society.

About MINDS

Since 1962, MINDS has been dedicated to helping people with intellectual disabilities and their families. They truly believe in the unique talents everyone has and work tirelessly to empower them while pushing for greater inclusivity. As one of Singapore’s biggest charities, MINDS supports almost 9,000 people each year with a range of services, including schools, job training, and community support.

About Singapore Film Society

For over 60 years, the Singapore Film Society (SFS) has been bringing the best of international cinema to Singapore by teaming up with a variety of partners. They’re known for their creative programming and top-notch festival management. SFS puts on major events like the Singapore Chinese Film Festival, the European Union Film Festival, and the MINDS Film Festival. Their aim is to celebrate film as both an art form and entertainment, bridging the gap between art-house and mainstream cinema.

Must-See Films at MINDS Film Festival 2024

1. Poppy (2021) | Drama | PG | New Zealand

Starring: Libby Hunsdale, Ari Boyland, Sebastian Hunter, Kali Kopae

Directed by: Linda Niccol

Language: English

Duration: 98 minutes

In Poppy, a young woman with Down syndrome is determined to live life on her own terms. She dreams of becoming a motor mechanic and starts an apprenticeship promised by her late father. However, her plans are hindered by her overprotective brother, who has taken over the family business. The story takes a twist when she partners with an old schoolmate to fix his car in time for a local burnout competition.

Showtimes & Venue: 21 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 1.30pm

2. Please Make Me Look Pretty (2020) | Documentary | PG | Korea

Starring: Jung Eun-hye, Jang Hyun-sil

Directed by: Seo Dong-il

Language: Korean

Duration: 87 minutes

Please Make Me Look Pretty follows Jung Eun-hye, who was born with Down syndrome and spends her days knitting at home. During a scorching summer, she gains fame for her caricature drawings at Munhori Flea Market in Yangpyeong, South Korea. When customers ask her to “make me look pretty,” she responds, “But you’re already pretty.” Over 2,000 people smile as she passionately and skillfully draws their caricature portraits.

Showtimes & Venue: 21 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 4pm

3. Spring in Between (2023) | Romance | PG | Japan

Starring: Hio Miyazawa, Sakurako Konishi, Yoshihiko Hosoda, Shinnosuke Takahashi
Directed by: Rika Katsu
Language: Japanese
Duration: 103 minutes

Spring in Between tells the story of Haru, a magazine editor struggling to find inspiration, who meets painter Toru while researching an article. Toru, who has autism, is known for his blunt honesty, which deeply intrigues Haru. Despite their contrasting personalities, they form a profound emotional bond. Directed by Rika Katsu, this film sensitively explores their unique relationship.

Showtimes & Venue: 21 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 4pm

4. Shadow (2023) | Mockumentary | PG | Australia

Starring: Mark Deans, Simon Laherty, Sarah Mainwaring, Scott Price, Breanna Deleo
Directed by: Bruce Gladwin
Language: English
Duration: 57 minutes

Shadow follows Simon, Scott, and Sarah, a group of activists with intellectual disabilities, as they organise a town hall meeting to debate the impact of artificial intelligence. Simon, eager to be seen as a community hero, quickly appoints himself as mayor. Scott, who starts as a reluctant facilitator, becomes enthralled by his new role and begins to ignore others’ perspectives. Meanwhile, Sarah, often underestimated, finally speaks out against the self-appointed leaders. What starts as a civil discussion rapidly descends into chaos, driven by an invisible force. As Sarah attempts to unite the group, it becomes apparent that their message might already be lost.

Showtimes & Venue: 21 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 1.30pm

5. Whatever Scares You (2022) | Documentary | PG | Australia

Starring: Breanna Deleo, Joanne Deleo, Joseph Deleo

Directed by: Tamara Searle

Language: English

Duration: 30 minutes

Whatever Scares You follows Breanna as she pursues a career in professional art while identifying as neurodivergent. Despite her parents’ unwavering support and desire to protect her, Breanna must navigate the challenges of the world independently to truly find her path. This documentary offers a heartfelt look at her journey and the balancing act between support and self-discovery.

Showtimes & Venue: 21 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 1.30pm

6. Stand Up Story (2023) | Drama | PG | Hong Kong

Starring: Locker Lam, Ben Yuen, Joman Chiang, Ng Siu Hin, Franco Yuen, Ng Wing-sze

Directed by: Au Cheuk-man

Language: Cantonese

Duration: 104 minutes

Stand Up Story follows Mancer, who has always known his father Wah is different due to his intellectual disability. After his mother leaves, Mancer becomes his father’s primary caregiver. Entering a stand-up comedy competition for prize money, Mancer quickly becomes hooked on the joy of making people laugh. However, he struggles to find inspiration post-competition. As he reflects on his own hardships—school ridicule, work challenges, caregiving, and even the pandemic—he discovers that his greatest jokes come from his struggles. The film explores how misery can be a powerful source of comedy.

Showtimes & Venues: 20 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 9:00 PM; 22 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 1.30pm

7. Ezra (2023) | Family/Travel | PG | United States

Starring: Bobby Cannavale, Rose Byrne, Vera Farmiga, Whoopi Goldberg, Rainn Wilson, Tony Goldwyn, William A. Fitzgerald, Robert De Niro

Directed by: Tony Goldwyn

Language: English

Duration: 101 minutes

Ezra follows stand-up comic Max Bernal and his 11-year-old son Ezra, who has autism, on a heartfelt road trip. After ruining his career and marriage, Max, who now lives with his father, is at odds with his ex-wife Jenna over how to support their son’s needs. When Ezra is expelled from yet another school, Max decides on a bold move: a cross-country journey to reconnect with his son. This film offers a touching exploration of family dynamics and the quest for understanding.

Showtimes & Venue: 20 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 9pm

Be part of the MFF 2024 and support a more inclusive society. For details about the festival and screenings, click here. To purchase your tickets, click here.

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