Embark on an extraordinary cinematic journey with the MINDS Film Festival (MFF) 2024, co-presented by MINDS and the Singapore Film Society (SFS). From 14 to 22 September 2024, Shaw Theatres will host a powerful showcase of seven international films that spotlight the resilience, creativity, and individuality of persons with special needs.
This year’s festival aims to deepen public understanding and foster greater acceptance of individuals with disabilities. Each film in the lineup tells a compelling story of perseverance and the transformative power of community support, highlighting the unique abilities that make each person special.
Poppy (2021 | Drama | New Zealand | 98 mins)
Meet Poppy, a young woman with Down syndrome who refuses to be defined by her disability. Aspiring to become a motor mechanic, she embarks on an apprenticeship promised by her late father. However, her journey is challenged by her overly protective brother, who has reluctantly taken over the family business. When Poppy teams up with an old schoolmate who needs his car fixed for a local burnout competition, she takes control of her destiny.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 14 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 6:40 PM
- 21 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 1:30 PM
Please Make Me Look Pretty (2020 | Documentary | Korea | 87 mins)
Follow the story of Jung Eun-hye, an artist with Down syndrome who captures the beauty of those she meets through her caricature portraits at a South Korean flea market. Despite the challenges she faces, Jung’s art brings smiles to over 2,000 people, proving that everyone is beautiful in their own way.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 15 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 1:30 PM
- 21 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 4:00 PM
Spring in Between (2023 | Romance | Japan | 103 mins)
This romantic drama follows the unexpected connection between Haru, a struggling magazine editor, and Toru, a painter with autism. Their unique relationship, filled with honest and straightforward communication, defies societal norms and explores the beauty of emotional connection beyond personality differences.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 15 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 4:00 PM
- 21 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 4:00 PM
Shadow (2023 | Mockumentary | Australia | 57 mins)
Join Simon, Scott, and Sarah, activists with intellectual disabilities, as they organize a town hall meeting to discuss the future effects of artificial intelligence. The meeting quickly devolves into chaos, highlighting the complexities and challenges of leadership within marginalized communities.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 14 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 4:15 PM
- 21 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 1:30 PM
Whatever Scares You (2022 | Documentary | Australia | 30 mins)
This documentary, screened alongside Shadow, follows Breanna, a neurodivergent individual pursuing a career as a professional artist. With the support of her parents, Breanna navigates the challenges of her journey, ultimately finding her own path in the world.
Stand Up Story (2023 | Drama | Hong Kong | 104 mins)
Mancer, a young man who becomes his intellectually disabled father’s caregiver, turns to stand-up comedy to cope with life’s challenges. As he finds humor in his hardships, Mancer discovers that comedy can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 15 September 2024, Shaw Waterway Point at 3:00 PM
- 20 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 9:00 PM
- 22 September 2024, Shaw NEX at 1:30 PM
Ezra (2023 | Family/Travel | United States | 101 mins)
Join stand-up comic Max Bernal and his 11-year-old son with autism, Ezra, on a road trip across the United States. As they navigate the challenges of understanding one another, their journey becomes a vivid portrait of family, love, and the complexities of addressing special needs.
Showtimes & Venues:
- 14 September 2024, Shaw Lido at 1:30 PM
- 15 September 2024, Shaw Waterway Point at 5:30 PM
- 20 September 2024, Shaw Lot One at 9:00 PM
Festival Admission Details
Tickets go on sale from 22 August 2024. Here’s what you need to know:
- General admission: $15
- MINDS staff and SFS members: $12 (limit 3 tickets per staff/member)
- Students: $10 (limit 1 ticket per student)
- Developmental Disability Registry (DDR) Card Holders: Free admission (maximum 3 tickets per cardholder)
The MINDS Film Festival 2024 is more than just a series of screenings—it’s a celebration of the strength, creativity, and individuality of persons with special needs.
