BMW Shorties announces Top 10 finalists for 2024: Malaysia’s Creative Pulse

KUALA LUMPUR:  In an impressive testament to Malaysia's flourishing creative scene, the BMW Shorties has revealed the ten standout finalists for its 2024 competition.

Themed "PULSE," this year’s edition has drawn a record-breaking 152 entries, showcasing exceptional storytelling and innovative filmmaking across genres.

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As BMW Group Malaysia’s longest-running creative initiative, the BMW Shorties continues to celebrate and elevate local talent, offering finalists a shot at the prestigious Grand Prize: an RM80,000 production grant.

Corporate Communications and Sustainability Director at BMW Group Malaysia, Sashi Ambihaipahan, commented on the competition's growth: “Last year’s theme, ‘EVOLVE,’ marked a transformation in how we celebrate local digital content creators. This year, with ‘PULSE,’ we have seen this momentum surge forward as we continue to push creative boundaries and develop the passion for creative storytelling. With a brand-new record of 152 submissions, we are encouraged more than ever before in the enduring passion for digital content creation in Malaysia, and we are proud to see the BMW Shorties be a platform that continuously nurtures and supports this art and creativity.”

The judging panel, which includes prominent figures from the Malaysian creative industry, was captivated by this year’s submissions.

“Going through this year’s pool of submissions has been an incredible experience yet again,” said award-winning director and 2024 BMW Shorties judge Nadiah Hamzah. “The drive was apparent in each story, and I believe that our creatives this year perfectly encapsulated the meaning of ‘PULSE,’ in showcasing what keeps their creative spirit going.”

Fellow judge Tunku Mona Riza shared her thoughts, highlighting the diversity of perspectives and genres represented this year. “It was truly a delight to witness such a wide range of genres this year, each bringing its own unique perspective towards the theme of ‘PULSE’. From heartfelt dramas to bold experimental films, we could feel the passion and dedication from all the participants.”

The finalists' works will be screened on December 7 at REXKL, Kuala Lumpur, allowing the public to view these projects and hear firsthand from the creators.

The event kicks off at 3:30 p.m., promising an immersive experience into the world of Malaysian digital storytelling. That evening, the announcement of the 18th Grand Prize Winner will take place, with one filmmaker earning the coveted RM80,000 grant to bring their vision to life.

In addition to the Grand Prize, public voting has opened for the People’s Choice Award, allowing fans to support their favorite films online until 6 p.m. on December 7.

Votes can be cast on the BMW Shorties website.

The finalists for BMW Shorties 2024 are:

• Mourning Visit | 返歸 - Chan Teik Quan
• Tomorrow is Spring | வருங்காலம் வசந்தகாலம் - Krityishaa A/P Karunagaran
• From Aini To Europa - Sidney Chan
• Neural - Deru Inara
• Another Kind of Life - Muhammad Fattah Fawzy bin A Rahman
• Here Without The Sun - Chong Bao Quan
• On The Line | 抉擇 - Chew Boon Wai
• Metronorm - Danial Nawawi
• DENGAR BANG$@! - Nur Nasuha binti Fairus
• Still, The Same - Ronald Chan Jun Chuan

This year’s competition also celebrates nominees for Supporting Awards across categories like Best Sound Design, Cinematography, Story, Production Design, Editing, Director, Actress, and the Best Student Shorties.

For additional updates and information about the BMW Shorties Awards Night and voting, visit the official BMW Shorties website or follow their social media pages on Facebook and Instagram.

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