Oscar-Nominated Director Majid Majidi Attends Private Screening Of Malaysian Short Film
A Rare Moment For Malaysian Independent Cinema
Malaysia’s independent film scene reached a meaningful milestone when Oscar-nominated Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi attended a private screening of the Malaysian short film LIFE – Living In Fear Everyday in Kuala Lumpur.
The intimate event marked the first time Majidi had privately attended a screening of a Malaysian short film, placing the project in a unique moment of recognition for the country’s emerging independent filmmakers.
Despite being produced on an extremely small budget, the silent short film managed to draw the attention of one of the most respected figures in world cinema.
Director Justin Franz Welcomes Majidi
The evening began with an opening address by the film’s director, Justin Franz, who described the moment as both surreal and deeply meaningful.
Franz, who has long admired Majidi’s work, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share the film with the acclaimed Iranian director.
For Franz, welcoming Majidi to the screening represented not only personal validation but also encouragement for independent filmmakers working with limited resources.
Prominent Malaysian Film Figures Attend
The screening also brought together several notable figures within Malaysia’s film and creative industry.
Among the distinguished guests was Kamil Othman, former chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), who delivered welcoming remarks to Majidi and delegates from the Iranian International Film Festival.
Also present were respected Malaysian film personalities including Hassan Muthalib, widely recognised as the “Father of Malaysian Animation”, and Wong Tuck Cheong, president of Kelab Seni Malaysia.
Representatives from major Malaysian entertainment companies such as Astro Shaw and Golden Screen Cinemas were also in attendance.
The gathering created an informal yet meaningful space for industry figures, filmmakers, and actors to exchange ideas while celebrating the craft of storytelling.
A Film Made With Less Than RM1,000
One of the most remarkable aspects of LIFE – Living In Fear Everyday lies in how the film was made.
Franz revealed that the entire project was produced on a budget of less than RM1,000.
The film was shot primarily using two iPhones and relied on a minimal production setup.
Aside from Franz himself, who served as writer, director, and producer, the only other key crew member was Suran Hassan.
Hassan simultaneously took on multiple responsibilities as the film’s director of photography and editor.
Franz later introduced several members of the cast to the audience, including actors Ken Thayalan, Elli Famira, and Aairenee Zarina. French actor Max Gauduchon was unable to attend the screening.
Interestingly, all of the actors involved in the production were first-time performers without prior acting credits.
Majid Majidi Shares Insights In Informal Masterclass
Following the screening, Majidi conducted an informal masterclass session with the filmmakers and attendees.
During the discussion, he offered thoughtful observations and constructive feedback on the film.
Majidi emphasised what he described as the “universal language of cinema”, a principle he believes many filmmakers overlook while focusing too heavily on technical elements.
He also praised Franz for choosing practical filmmaking techniques rather than relying on artificial intelligence or computer-generated effects.
One particular moment that impressed Majidi was a thunderstorm sequence in the film.
Franz and Hassan explained that the scene required hours of patience to capture naturally using their mobile cameras.
Majidi commended their commitment to capturing authentic visuals despite working with extremely limited resources.
Showcasing Malaysia Through Cinema
Majidi also highlighted the way the film portrayed Malaysia.
He praised the filmmakers for presenting what he described as a “beautiful Malaysia” through locations that are rarely seen on screen.
According to him, such choices provide audiences with a refreshing perspective of the country while expanding the visual identity of Malaysian cinema.
He also noted the strong performances delivered by the cast, especially considering that the actors were newcomers to the craft.
Industry Leaders Praise The Film
Former FINAS chairman Kamil Othman also shared his thoughts on the film during the event.
“Some films stay with you long after you walk out of the cinema, and LIFE is such a movie,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Hassan Muthalib praised the film’s central concept, describing it as a clever exploration of human cruelty.
He observed that while the narrative remains mysterious for much of the film, it ultimately delivers a powerful and unexpected conclusion.
Muthalib also highlighted Franz’s background as a law graduate without formal training in filmmaking.
Despite that unconventional path, he noted that the director demonstrated strong creative potential and the ability to grow even further in the industry.
A Reminder That Storytelling Matters Most
Majidi’s presence at the screening carried symbolic weight for many in attendance.
The film was created without significant financial backing, professional film equipment, or large marketing campaigns.
Yet the screening attracted the attention of a filmmaker who has long been respected for emotionally powerful cinema.
For many observers, the event served as a reminder that meaningful storytelling does not depend on large budgets.
Instead, it often emerges from passion, sincerity, and the willingness to tell human stories with honesty.
LIFE – Living In Fear Everyday stands as a powerful example of how creativity and determination can transcend technical limitations.
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