Rozinorazali & Co, in partnership with Kolej Poly-Tech MARA Batu Pahat, Johor is proud to announce the finalists for the 5th annual Neo-South Independent Film Festival, celebrating up-and-coming talent in independent filmmaking across Asia and Southeast Asia. The highly anticipated awards include the Neo-South Award, Filmuda Award, and Young Rebel Award, with the Destar Award set to honour the best picture among the finalists.
Finalists for the Neo-South Award include Let It Be: Progress by Yurugu Matsumota (Japan), a poignant narrative on women in the film industry, and Brahmakanya (The Colour of Hope) by Dhiraj Kashyap (India), a heart-wrenching story of survival and hope. Competing for the Filmuda Award are Sanai by Akanchha Karki (Nepal), which tackles the taboo of women playing certain musical instruments, and Anumala, The Tale of Two Daughters by Bibhu Poudel and Bishal Dotel (Nepal), a gripping story about human trafficking.
The Young Rebel Award finalists feature bold student filmmakers: Nasi Daging Mak by Nur Assyuraa, Unknown by Muhammad Anas, Kalimah Cinta by Aliya Natasha, and Perompak Lokal by Hafizi Hilmy and Muhamad Farid, showcasing a mix of redemption, betrayal, and survival themes.
Dr Rozinorazali, the festival’s founder, remarked, “A filmmaker must discover the pivotal elements and tones of their narrative. By securing the attention and support of a small, enthusiastic audience beyond their familiar territory, their dreams can be realized. Otherwise, their work may appear disjointed, and the path to success unclear. A platform is vital for anyone aiming to achieve their dreams.”
The Neo-South Independent Film Festival aims to connect independent filmmakers from Southern Malaysia with the wider Asian and Southeast Asian indie film scene, serving as a beacon for cinematic excellence and cross-cultural collaboration. Since 2020, the festival has nurtured budding talents, bringing attention to compelling stories and innovative storytelling from diverse cultural perspectives.
