Malaysian film ‘Pavane for an Infant’ reveals societal issues at Tokyo International Film Festival

A powerful narrative addressing abandoned babies and women’s rights

Malaysian director’s latest work, “Pavane for an Infant”, makes a significant impact with its world premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival. Starring the acclaimed Fish Liew, the film takes on the urgent social issue of abandoned babies and the rights of women in Malaysia, promising to resonate beyond the country’s borders.

Plot and themes of ‘Pavane for an Infant’

The story follows a dedicated female social worker at a baby hatch facility, shining a light on the numerous challenges faced by women in Malaysia’s heavily patriarchal society. Fish Liew, known for her remarkable performances in films like Lazy Hazy Crazy, A Guilty Conscience, and Anita, takes on a leading role in this socially charged drama.

Inspiration from real encounters

The origins of this poignant project date back to 2016, when the director encountered a baby hatch organization. This exposure had a profound impact on him, leading to the creation of the film. Reflecting on a conversation with a female activist, the director recalls, “We work tirelessly to save newborns, but many religious leaders falsely accuse us of promoting incest. They warn us of future divine retribution.”

Backed by SunStrong Entertainment, the film’s development was further influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic’s exacerbating effects on unplanned pregnancies and sexual assaults, consequently leading to a rise in abandoned babies. An interview with a young assault survivor also played a key role in shaping the narrative.

Challenges amidst growing conservatism

In a landscape where conservatism is on the rise, even humanitarian efforts like the baby hatch face significant discrimination and opposition. The increase in abandoned babies and the persistent violence against women, both physical and emotional, are central themes of the film, bringing attention to critical issues within Malaysia.

A landmark project for the director

This project also marked a pivotal point for the director, as it was the first time he accepted a direct film production proposal from an investor, who emphasized the importance of advocating for women in Malaysia. The director’s commitment to shedding light on societal truths is evident in his previous works, wherein he meticulously explores and exposes suppressed topics within his cultural context.

Previous works and recognition

The director’s earlier film, Story of the Southern Islet, gained notable recognition, screening at prestigious festivals like Locarno and Rotterdam. It earned him the Best New Director award at the Golden Horse Awards in 2020. His subsequent feature, “Snow in Midsummer”, was selected for Venice Days in 2023 and amassed nine Golden Horse nominations. This film tackled the sensitive subject of race riots in Malaysia, revealing truths that had been largely concealed for decades.

Navigating censorship and continuing the journey

The director’s journey has not been free of obstacles. Malaysian film censorship remains a formidable barrier, complicating the process of screening such works within the country despite their international acclaim. Nevertheless, he remains unwavering in his resolve to portray the stark realities of Malaysian society through his lens, continually pushing artistic boundaries to uncover deeper truths.

Looking towards the future

The director’s upcoming project, “Mother Bhoomi”, currently in production and featuring Chinese superstar Fan Bingbing, is eagerly anticipated. As he continues to tell compelling stories that delve into societal issues, his films not only entertain but provoke thought and drive conversations on significant themes.

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