2021

Production began when we thought Covid-19 restrictions in Malaysia would ease. Cases skyrocketed instead, and the government doubled down in response. Police roadblocks were set up at every district border in the country, and only those with authorised permission were allowed to travel past certain distances. With the traditional talking heads and b-roll formats no longer an option, the participant interviews were conducted virtually.

2022

Having only video call footage and run-and-gun audio to work with, we decided to turn the recordings into voice overs that will play in tandem with animated sequences, bringing their stories to life in an engaging manner. No one wants to look at a bunch of Zoom screens after all!

Each 6-8 minute episode will be attached to a different animator to showcase the distinct circumstances and personalities of every participant through various visual styles, all while maintaining an overall hand-drawn/painted look.

2023

With our crowdfunding campaign successfully wrapped, our talented crew are currently working hard to bring their assigned episodes to life. Projected completion date: late 2024.

2024

We’ve been featured on New Straits Times, an English-language Malaysian news publication (and the country’s oldest newspaper still in print!). Check out the article here!

We also have an article on The Star, another major English-language publication in Malaysia. Check out the article here!

Check out Jean’s podcast episode with BFM, Malaysia's only independent radio station focused on business news and current affairs here!

Read Block Club Chicago’s article on the series here!

Check out Malaysiakini’s writeup on the series here!

We screened episodes 1-3 on Sunday, May 26 at Facets Theater in Chicago, followed by a Q&A session with the crew. Most of the proceeds went toward helping out 2 of our participants, Peter and DHRRA Malaysia.

Peter used the funds to buy school supplies, along with paying off a portion of the rent for the space the school uses. DHRRA Malaysia is currently raising funds to support advocacy and data collection efforts to further address statelessness in the country. The donations will greatly aid in providing social protection, psychological support, policy and advocacy, paralegal assistance, and awareness campaigns surrounding the issue.

Check out the highlights video here!

Read all about the screening experience on Camera Ambassador’s The Call Sheet blog here!

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