Malaysia
Singapore
Thailand
‘ “Passion card?”, “No passion.” ‘ Already, one of my favourite lines in the upcoming film Tiong Bahru Social Club that is set to open the 31st Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF).
This directorial debut from Tan Bee Thiam, tells of a 30-year-old Ah Bee going through the monotonous humdrum of life until he finds himself in the mysterious, cultish Tiong Bahru Social Club, a “data-driven project to create the happiest neighbourhood in the world”.
A club where everyone is focused on being happy, what could possibly go wrong?
Besides the candy-coloured, dreamy Wes Anderson-eque whimsical visuals (which we are IN LOVE with, by the way ), the film Tiong Bahru Social Club is a love letter to the eclectic neighbourhood of Tiong Bahru and by extension Singapore.
This satirical film pokes fun at all our Singaporean sensibilities whether its the complaint centre where you get to air all your little grievances or the overachieving nature to reach the said happiness index. It’s fun, thought-provoking and might even lead you to question all your life’s decisions.
Well, if we want to talk about overachieving and being the best, Tiong Bahru Social Club has already bagged numerous accolades. The film is set to world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival, screened at the Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival and up for Best Film, Best Director and Best Performance at the SGIFF—all this for a debut, talk about teacher’s pet.
Know that I kid, and seeing a Singaporean film on an international platform makes me beam with absolute pride and happiness (all 43% of it). A quirky and funny film that is sure to strike a chord, the film will be premiering in Singapore cinemas on 10 December 2020.
Watch the full trailer here.
Dates & Times: Premiering in cinemas on 10 December 2020
Prices: TBC
