A Dream Production under ‘Geran Belia Juara Grant 2022'

The film, entitled ‘A Dream’ is a story based on a girl who became an orphan, who slowly begins a journey of self-discovery, and the realisation of her passions and dreams, as she struggles to obtain opportunities for herself. The film was proposed to the judges under the ‘Geran Belia Juara 2022’ grant in an effort to obtain funding to develop the film. The film was initially praised for its storyline, but garnered criticism for the lack of experience in regards to its filmmakers. As they were simply students, a project of this magnitude might cause some serious struggles.

However, the film pitched by Kiara Joy Ong Yi Jing and Aaron Patrick, from IACT College's BMCC program, ultimately won the grant for RM3000! The participants used the grant to produce the film: hiring actors, developing props, and creating the film sets. The production process was aided by award-winning director and filmmaker of 'Prebet Sapu,' Muzzamer Rahman, and a representative of the Selangor Creative Arts Movement (SCREAM), Zaiferez Hadzere bin Zainal. While multiple hurdles were met along the way - including some actors leaving the cast at the last minute, location troubles, and post-production difficulties - the film was ultimately developed within the vision of the director.

On the 15 December 2022, it all came to a climactic end, as the film premiered during the Selangor Youth Community's (SAYS) 5th Year Anniversary Gala. This stellar celebration was attended by a multitude of prominent guests such as the DYTM Raja Muda Selangor, and the Minister of Youth and Sports, YB Hannah Yeoh.

“It was amazing. Both the highs and lows of this journey are being felt. There's not much that I would change about this experience, and as far as the future goes, it seems bright. I’m excited to see what else I can accomplish in the field of filmmaking and directing. Furthermore, I’m honoured to have had the chance to work with an amazing cast and crew, and my mentors. I would also like to thank my lecturer, Mr. Azizul Rahman Mahfudz, for recommending this competition to me. In hindsight, I never believed we would ever make it this far, as my fellow competitors were all veterans in the field of production. I’m also thankful to IACT College for supporting me in my dreams, and I'm excited about what the future holds.” (Kiara Ong)

The premiere was an amazing opportunity for everyone to network, and experience something new, as it was the first time a student had won a grant to produce a short film. The night ended with bright hopes, and dreams for a strong future in the production industry for everyone involved.