Last Wednesday, Singapore’s brightest stars showed up in droves to lend their support to Singaporean filmmaker He Shuming’s directorial debut: Ajoomma. Helmed by celebrated auteur Anthony Chen, it’s the first film to be co-produced between Singapore and South Korea.
Starring Singaporean veteran actress Hong Huifang as well as up-and-coming South Korean heartthrob Kang Hyung Suk (known for his roles in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Love In Contract), the film has already gained Oscar buzz. The Singapore Film Commission has selected Ajoomma as its submission to the Best International Feature category at the 2023 Oscars. And that’s not all. It has also scored four nominations at the 59th Golden Horse Awards where Hong is up for the Best Actress category.
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The Film
The plot is simple enough, but the film is anything but. It follows the story of a Singaporean housewife named Auntie (played by Hong)—a middle-aged widow, dedicated to her son (played by Shane Pow). And like many of us, Auntie loves her South Korean dramas which prompted her and her son to plan a trip to South Korea. However, due to a scheduling conflict, Auntie journeys to the land of K-Drama and K-Pop by herself where she meets Kwon-Woo (played by Kang), her tour guide. One thing leads to another and they embark on an epic journey of self-discovery, forming unlikely bonds. It’s a heartwarming tale told through cinematic, comedic lenses which are sure to put a smile on your face. Hong’s comedic timing in this film is impeccable—as is Kang’s.
Ajoomma is out now exclusively at Golden Village Pictures.
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An Unexpected Surprise
South Korean actor, Yeo Jin-goo, will make a special appearance in the film.
Jung Dong-hwan, known for his appearances in K-dramas including Hotel Del Luna (2019), Money Game (2020) and Mine (2021), is also in this film.
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The Premiere
The film made its Singapore debut at Capitol Theatre last Wednesday. The star-studded Gala Premiere saw attendees such as Fann Wong, Benjamin Kheng and Chantalle Ng as well as local directors Eric Khoo, Royston Tan, Boo Junfeng and many more.