RM1,000 Short Film by Ipoh Filmmaker Draws Academy Award–Nominated Director
By Anne Das
Ipoh-born filmmaker Justin Franz has reached another milestone with his silent short L.I.F.E. – Living In Fear Everyday.
Produced on a budget of less than RM1,000, the film recently drew the attention of Academy Award–nominated Iranian filmmaker Majid Majidi, who attended a private screening in Kuala Lumpur alongside delegates from the Iranian International Film Festival. The gathering marked the first time Majidi had privately attended a screening of a Malaysian short film.
Majidi is best known internationally for directing Children of Heaven (1997), the Iranian drama that earned a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and became one of the country’s most celebrated works in global cinema.
It was an intimate screening that saw industry figures, filmmakers and guests gathered for viewing and conversation. Among those present were former FINAS chairman Dato’ Kamil Othman, animation pioneer Hassan Muthalib, often described as the father of Malaysian animation, and Kelab Seni Malaysia president Wong Tuck Cheong.
Following the screening, Majidi shared insights during an informal masterclass with the filmmakers and guests. Drawing on decades of filmmaking experience, he spoke about what he described as the universal language of cinema — the idea that powerful storytelling can connect with audiences even without dialogue.
Majidi praised the film’s decision to shoot several scenes using iPhones rather than relying on artificial intelligence or computer-generated effects. He singled out a thunderstorm sequence that Franz and Hassan said took hours of patient positioning to capture.
He also commended the way the film presents Malaysia through locations rarely seen on screen. Majidi noted the strong performances delivered by the cast, adding that all the actors were first-timers with no prior acting credits.
Former FINAS chairman Dato’ Kamil Othman said, “Some films stay with you long after you walk out of the cinema, and LIFE is such a movie.”
For Ipoh-born filmmaker Justin Franz, the moment marks a proud “Ipoh Mali” milestone.
“Just like fellow Ipoh native and Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh, talent and powerful stories from our city can reach audiences around the world,” he said.
“Emotions are universal. We hope the film reminds people that empathy still matters, even in a world that sometimes forgets it.”
L.I.F.E. – Living In Fear Everyday is currently making its rounds on the international film festival circuit and is not yet available for public viewing. Franz is also exploring plans to expand the story into a feature-length film or a limited silent series continuing the narrative.
Ipoh Echo previously featured Franz and the international festival journey of L.I.F.E. – Living In Fear Everyday. Readers who missed that earlier story can revisit it here: https://www.ipohecho.com.my/2026/01/21/an-ipoh-born-filmmaker-shares-his-silent-story-with-the-world/
