entertainment

Malaysian Animated Film Makes History By Winning Best Animation At San Diego Comic-Con

Cancer survivor Jared Lee said that he always wanted to tell stories that he "could not describe properly in words".

Cover image via @jaredle3 (Instagram)

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In a momentous occasion for the Malaysian film industry, cancer survivor Jared Lee's animated short film, Horologist, has made history

Horologist — which explores the poignant journey of a young watchmaker's quest to save time in a fantastical world — became the first Malaysian short film to win the prestigious award for Best Animation at the San Diego Comic-Con yesterday, 25 July, according to the YouTube filmmaker's post on Facebook.

Lee expressed his gratitude towards those who believed in the project, which weaves a touching narrative, accompanied by stunning visuals that transport the audience into a realm of imagination and emotion.

The talented Malaysian filmmaker stated that he had always wanted to tell stories that he could not describe properly in words

"I have no words other than a big thank you to everyone who said yes to this project, and everyone who has supported the manga. Friends, family, and wife who believed in stories I've wanted to tell, and visions I couldn't describe properly in words. Will keep pushing for as long as I am able," Lee wrote on Instagram.

A pandemic project, Horologist was recently selected and screened at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, where it garnered widespread acclaim

The film's selection at the Cannes Film Festival catapulted Horologist into the spotlight, earning it well-deserved recognition and praise from industry peers and film enthusiasts alike.

The tale follows the protagonist, Sand, a humble shopkeeper, who stumbles upon a mystical discovery — the ability to sell time itself. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that this newfound power comes at a heavy and unforeseen cost, leading Sand on a journey of self-discovery and consequences.

Horologist draws its inspiration from the first instalment of The Grimoire, a four-part comic-book collection jointly created by Jared Lee and local comic artist Cross. Translating the comic onto the silver screen, the animation brings to life the intricacies of the characters and the enchanting world they inhabit.

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