Sean Baker on Michelle Yeoh Short, Next Film: Italian Sex Comedy Homage

Oscar-winning director Sean Baker dramatically altered his creative course just 24 hours after arriving in Penang, Malaysia, to begin production on his new short film, “Sandiwara.” The project, starring Michelle Yeoh, initially began with a script Baker deemed unrealistic and disconnected from the location.

A Change of Scenery, A Change of Story

Baker described his original script as “ridiculous,” admitting it felt like a creation “from someone from the outside writing from their couch in West Hollywood.” The initial concept centered around Yeoh in a “caper,” evading “some gangsters.” However, immersion in Penang quickly revealed a different inspiration: the city’s renowned culinary scene and unique physical landscape.

Did You Know? The short film is a collaboration with Self-Portrait’s Residency programme, an initiative designed to unite artists across disciplines without creative restrictions.

Celebrating Roots Through Storytelling

The film’s genesis lies in the vision of Han Chong, founder of Self-Portrait, who grew up in Penang. Chong aimed to create a film celebrating his hometown, emphasizing that the project was “much deeper than just fashion.” He wanted to showcase the “culture [and] the emotion” of Penang, particularly with Yeoh as a central figure.

“Sandiwara” features Yeoh portraying five distinct characters – an influencer, food critic, chef, restaurant server, and singer – all adorned in Self-Portrait clothing. Their stories unfold and intersect within a bustling Penang food court. Chong considers Yeoh “Miss Malaysia,” recognising her as a symbol of possibility and aspiration within Asia.

A Unique Production Approach

Baker’s decision to shoot “Sandiwara” entirely on an iPhone reflects a return to his roots, reminiscent of his work on films like “Tangerine.” The production embraced a degree of spontaneity, with 95% of the background figures in the food court being real patrons rather than hired extras. This approach presented a unique challenge – integrating a global star like Yeoh into an authentic, unscripted environment.

Expert Insight: The decision to shoot with an iPhone and utilize real-life settings suggests a commitment to capturing a sense of immediacy and authenticity, potentially blurring the lines between fiction and reality and offering a unique cinematic experience.

Looking Ahead

Baker’s involvement stemmed from the creative freedom offered by the project and the opportunity to collaborate with Yeoh. He described their collaboration as “incredible,” noting their dedication and generosity. Following “Sandiwara,” Baker is slated to begin work on a new film set in Italy, starring Vera Gemma, described as a “love letter to the Italian sex comedies of the ’60s and ’70s.” He intends to maintain independent control over his projects, prioritizing creative vision over studio intervention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Sean Baker to scrap his original script for “Sandiwara”?

Baker felt his initial script was inauthentic and did not reflect the true essence of Penang, Malaysia, after spending time in the city.

What role does Michelle Yeoh play in “Sandiwara”?

Michelle Yeoh embodies five different characters – an influencer, food critic, chef, restaurant server, and singer – all wearing Self-Portrait clothes, whose stories intertwine at a Penang food court.

What is Sean Baker’s next film project?

Baker’s next film, starring Vera Gemma, will be set in Italy and is described as a tribute to Italian sex comedies from the 1960s and 70s.

How do you think the unique production style of “Sandiwara” – shooting on an iPhone and using real-life settings – will impact the final film’s reception?