Singapore Dreaming strikes one as uniquely Singaporean. The opening of the film greets viewers with cut scenes of the Singapore heartlander's life, at HDB flats, at coffeeshops and at the market as Bong Chun Hong plays in the background. Subsequently, a parent chastises her son for scoring 95 for spelling while a classmate scored 100. The radio reports of a case of maid abuse. Even the wake is held Singapore-style in one of the HDB multi-purpose halls.
The local movie produced by Woo Yen Yen and Colin Goh centres around the Loh family of six, each with different aspirations. Yet, realities of life leave the younger generation disappointed. Through extensive characterisation, the movie shows how each of them are carried to breaking point, and how $1.2 million brought relief to some, but not all.
The film would probably present vastly different meanings to different viewers. To foreigners, it serves as a primer to Singaporean lifestyle and culture, and very effectively indeed. To Singaporeans who can relate to the characters, it would probably be an emotional piece of work (as it was to me), gripping the audience through the trials and tribulations of the characters, making them feel for the Lohs.
Particularly curious was how the conflict in the movie was partially resolved. When all came crashing down on thembe it their livelihood, their relationship, the perfect family they covetedmoney, although no panacea, presented hope. Thus, the movie was subtly telling of money's unique role in modern Singapore society.
Walk into the theatre while the movie remains in cinemas; Singapore Dreaming will let you know, and let you feel.
The local movie produced by Woo Yen Yen and Colin Goh centres around the Loh family of six, each with different aspirations. Yet, realities of life leave the younger generation disappointed. Through extensive characterisation, the movie shows how each of them are carried to breaking point, and how $1.2 million brought relief to some, but not all.
The film would probably present vastly different meanings to different viewers. To foreigners, it serves as a primer to Singaporean lifestyle and culture, and very effectively indeed. To Singaporeans who can relate to the characters, it would probably be an emotional piece of work (as it was to me), gripping the audience through the trials and tribulations of the characters, making them feel for the Lohs.
Particularly curious was how the conflict in the movie was partially resolved. When all came crashing down on thembe it their livelihood, their relationship, the perfect family they covetedmoney, although no panacea, presented hope. Thus, the movie was subtly telling of money's unique role in modern Singapore society.
Walk into the theatre while the movie remains in cinemas; Singapore Dreaming will let you know, and let you feel.