A Giant "Leap" Ahead for Singapore Cinema

Tomorrow marks a new era for feature films in Singapore because tomorrow is the premiere of Singapore's first English-based full feature film called The Leap Years.  The movie stars the beautiful actress Li Lin Wong as the central character Li An who meets the man of her dreams on February 29, and then the two promise to meet every leap year.  This "man of her dreams" is Thai actor Ananda Everingham.  And along with a colorful cast of supporting characters, Singapore embarks on a new journey into the world of cinema. 

Last week, I was fortunate enough to attend the gala premiere for the movie.  All the main actors were invited to come on stage and say a few words.

Especially since my cameo role lasts no more than a few seconds, I'm sure some fans were wondering why I was even on stage...

...and I could only respond by laughing and saying, "It helps when I know the lead actress of the flick very well." 

I must confess a lot of us really had no idea what to expect for this film.  One of the reasons for this is simply the fact that this movie was shot and completed more than three years ago.  And after waiting in "real time" for a bonafide Leap Year to come our way, this movie will finally be released. 

Now, when I say this project was truly a "labor of love," I really mean it.  Li Lin really poured her heart and soul (and tears) into this film, and she shines as Li An holding the film together.  Sure, there are "holes" and missteps that accompany a first-time Singaporean English-based film by a first-time movie director, but I am really proud of Li Lin and the rest of the cast for making this  giant first step in guiding Singapore in a new direction with a movie that opens up the imagination and possibility of producing feature films that can be commercially marketed and distributed beyond the shores of Singapore....films that do not revert back to the localized "tried and true" formula of heartlander-based Ah Beng themes that cater to a limited sector. 

I would never go as far as to declare the The Leap Years as the best love story ever adapted and produced, but I do feel it represents a bright beginning and new hope for Singapore cinema.  And for that reason alone, I encourage one and all to take the time to watch this movie so that this will truly be the beginning of a bright and viable future for Singapore filmmaking extending outside the realms of this country.

Since I've already seen the movie, I'm off to Kuala Lumpur to attend the opening of the new flagship store and fashion show for Salvatore Ferragamo.  I'll catch you later...and don't forget to tell me what you think of The Leap Years after you've seen it!