Taiwan-set drama film, “Mongrel,” is making waves as it gears up for the International Film Festival Rotterdam. Directed by Chiang Wei Liang, the film showcases the talents of Thai actor Wanlop Rungkumjad, known for his roles in “Eternity” and “Manta Ray.” Rungkumjad is joined by Taiwanese actress Lu Yi-ching and rapper Hong Yu-hong from the Taiwanese hip-hop group Nine One One. Atchara Suwan and Guo Shu-wei also play significant roles in this captivating production.
A Tale of Humanity in the Taiwanese Mountains
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Taiwan’s mountains, “Mongrel” tells the story of Oom, portrayed by Wanlop Rungkumjad. Oom is an undocumented migrant and caregiver for rural families, facing the challenge of maintaining his own humanity as he cares for the elderly and disabled.
The film marks Chiang’s directorial debut and has already garnered attention at esteemed film development programs such as TorinoFilmLab ScriptLab, Talents Tokyo, and the Cannes Residence, where it received the prestigious CNC Development Award.
Impressive Collaborative Effort
The production of “Mongrel” is a collaborative effort between E&W Films, Le Petit Jardin, and Deuxième Ligne Films. Producers Lai Weijie, Elizabeth Wijaya, Lynn Chen, Chu Yun-ting, and Marie Dubas have joined forces to bring this compelling story to life. Notably, Taiwan New Wave pioneers Hou Hsiao-hsien and Liao Ching-sung are on board as executive producers, lending their expertise to the project.
Anticipated for completion in the second or third quarter of 2024, “Mongrel” is currently seeking sales representation and establishing festival plans during the IFFR Pro’s Darkroom Work-In-Progress segment.
E&W Films’ Strong Track Record
E&W Films, the production company behind “Mongrel,” has a remarkable history of successful films. Titles such as “Taste,” directed by Marie Dubas, Kirsten Tan’s Sundance prize-winner “Pop Aye,” and “Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash” have earned critical acclaim and secured distribution deals with industry leaders like Wild Bunch, Cercamon, and The Match Factory.
A Personal and Poignant Story
Director Chiang expressed the deeply personal nature of “Mongrel,” drawing inspiration from his own experiences and the struggles faced by Southeast Asian communities in Taiwan. The film explores the toll that palliative care takes on caregivers and the complex relationship between hired help and those who depend on them. Through “Mongrel,” Chiang aims to shed light on the lives marginalized in the liminal spaces of Taiwanese society.
For more information about “Mongrel” and the International Film Festival Rotterdam, visit F5mag.com.
Source link: Variety