“When I first started writing my scripts, I realised that I was writing stories I could not quite connect with. Being in a place and culture so different from what I grew up in, I subconsciously tried to fit into the status quo. It was not until I was home in Malaysia during the pandemic that I was reminded of the people and places that first ignited my love for storytelling,” she told theSun.
“Sharing my Malaysian culture and roots through my work has been a way for me to connect with home while I am away,” she explained.
Chia’s work often delves into the complexities of human connections and the barriers that divide us, themes deeply rooted in her personal experiences and social advocacy.
Her films, such as the award-winning When I Die, explore these themes with a delicate balance of intimacy and universality.
Growing up in Malaysia’s multicultural environment also shaped her storytelling approach.
Exploring life, death and connection
“Growing up, death felt like a taboo topic yet one that was also spoken about calmly. I wanted to tell a story about someone grappling with the concept of death for the first time,” she said.
“Whether they relate to Lianne’s journey or the parents’ struggle to approach a sensitive topic, I hope audiences find echoes of their own experiences within the frames of this story,” Chia said.
Exploring diverse roles in filmmaking
“Being a director has given me a deep understanding of the creative process and how to best support a project I am producing by anticipating the needs of the director and team,” she explained.
“Stop-motion requires incredible precision and attention to detail. It has made me a much more intentional filmmaker in my creative choices,” she said.
“It is important to understand the core of the vision and invite the team to build on it. Collaboration often leads to a unified vision where everyone feels empowered.”
A recurring theme in Chia’s work is her dedication to sharing Malaysian stories with the world.
One of her projects in development is a sports drama centred around a badminton athlete and his widowed mother, exploring themes of family, grief and generational trauma.
For Chia, authenticity and respect are paramount when amplifying underrepresented voices.
This involves close collaboration and creating space for people to guide the narrative.
Advice for aspiring filmmakers
Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how personal narratives, grounded in cultural authenticity, can resonate universally.
As she continues to craft films that bridge barriers and celebrate connections, Chia is undoubtedly a voice to watch in the world of storytelling.
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