More than a decade ago, Malaysian feature film, "Kaki Bakar" by U-Wei made its appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. This year, Chris Chong repeats the success with his debut feature film, "Karaoke". It will be screened at the 2009 Cannes' Directors' Fortnight and "Karaoke" has been nominated for the Camera d'Or (Golden Camera), an award for the best first feature film presented in any one of the Cannes' selections. The Sabah-born film director and media artist has received worldwide acclaim for his documentary "Kolam" (2007) and short film "Block B" (2008). His short film has won Best International Short Film prize at Argentina's 23rd Mar Del Plata International Film Festival in 2008. Cinema Online got the opportunity to have a special interview with Chris Chong at Alexis Bistro, The Gardens Mid Valley on 12 May 2009.
Are you planning to release it in Malaysia? Chris: Yes, of course. I'm trying to get a cinema release. I have not had any meetings with anyone yet but I do have a plan to meet people whenever we can. I'm trying to get the distribution release as soon as possible. How did you gain your knowledge while directing your first feature film? Chris: I have never had any experience with feature films before, but what I did was surround myself with strong people like Yee I-Lann and my production team. That's all it took. I never went to film school. I just somehow knew the kind of look I wanted. I also take my inspirations from architecture as I rarely take inspirations from other films. What is "Karaoke" about? Chris: Set in Ijok, Selangor, the movie's concept is built around Malaysian styled karaoke videos and the story focuses on balik kampung. This film is entirely spoken in the Malay language. Sell your movie in one sentence. Chris: It's a movie that you can come and sing to because we provide the lyrics!