Michael Kam
Directing
Biography
Michael completed a post-graduate course in filmmaking from Ngee Ann Polytechnic in Singapore, and currently teaches in its film programme. An avid short filmmaker, Michael's works have travelled to numerous international film festivals, such as Berlin, Uppsala, Cork, Palm Springs, Encounters and Curta Cinema, among others. His films have received festival accolades such as the Best Fiction award at Tampere, the ARTE short film award at Hamburg and the Best Director award in Singapore. Michael has served as mentor and judge in ciNE65, and as a jury for the National Youth Film Awards.
Known For
After losing his wife, an elderly man who is preparing to move abroad to join his son plans to sell his beloved car. Meeting a transgender buyer and a sudden delay in his move push him toward an uncertain future.
The Old Man and His Car
An awkward, lonely boy is infatuated with his new neighbour, a young caregiver. In his own way, he reaches out to her...
Melodi
The young son of a poor "rag-and-bone" man aspires to draw superheroes but goes about it the wrong way by stealing a comic book from the gentle owner of a small Indian provision ("mama") shop. When fate brings them together again, they each discover something much more important...
Masala Mama
When a clinically depressed musician tries to back out on the day she gets the keys to her new rented flat, her closest friend has to coax her with a trip to the arcade and a Macdonald's meal.
Mama
Drawing inspiration from his memories of his grandmothers, Michael Kam imagines their childhood spent under different imperialist rule.
Nursery Rhymes
Wearing a headdress of flower petals, Rose wanders the streets of Bugis to spread joy and happiness, no matter how funny people think they may be. This whimsical project shot on Super 8 film features some of Singapore’s renowned filmmakers including Sun Koh, Michael Kam, Gözde Zehnder and Yeo Lee Nah.
Bloom
On a hot sunny afternoon, a father and two restless siblings are stuck in a traffic jam. The younger boy needs to relieve himself and his annoyed elder brother is ordered to help. A momentary negligence by the elder boy leads to a tragedy that the family will ultimately struggle to come to grips with...
Detour
A filmmaker recalls a unique outing with his parents in Singapore on February 2020. A contemplation on life, death and the ever-changing landscape on this small island.
One Day in Lim Chu Kang
Adopted as a young child, a Malay boy eventually came out as trans. Kristin was accepted by her foster parents, but her happiness was short-lived when both suddenly passed away. Shunned by the rest of her foster family, she was left to fend for herself. Now in her 60's, she tries to seek a balance between her faith, her identity and her beloved cats.