New Singaporean film Ajoomma is finally coming to Singaporean cinemas from 27th October 2022! The movie is directed by He Shuming and produced by Singaporean filmmaker Anthony Chen and Giraffe Pictures, the brains behind other famous Singaporean films like Ilo Ilo and Wet Season.
Ajoomma: A Heartwarming Story
Ajoomma tells the story of Lin Mei Hua/Auntie (Hong Hui Fang), a Korean-drama-obsessed Singaporean widow who has spent her lifetime caring for her family and her son Sam (Shane Pow). Auntie had been gearing up for a trip to South Korea with Sam, but after he suddenly announces a trip to America for a potential job interview, Auntie chooses to go on the trip alone.
On the trip, Auntie is accidentally left behind by her tour guide Kwon Woo (Kang Hyung-suk), and has no choice but to navigate the foreign streets with the help of a kind elderly security guard Jung Su (Jung Dong Hwan). The trio goes through a series of hilarious, heartwarming (and heartbreaking) events in an attempt to bring Auntie back to the group. Along the way, they learn more about themselves, their relationships, and their outlook on life.
The Story Behind The Story
Director He Shuming shares that the inspiration for Ajoomma actually came from his own mother, who shares a lot with the character of Auntie. Auntie’s character is someone who is tenacious as she is selfless, putting her family first – but as a result, she realizes she hasn’t gotten a chance to live for herself. “I wanted to explore… and reflect on our relationship as mother and son,” Anthony shared, “How [would] she want to lead her own life when she gets older?”
The film also features a star-studded cast, including Hong Hui Fang, Kang Hyung Suk, and even a special appearance by Yeo Jin Goo! Ajoomma is the first Singapore-Korea collaborative film, which took a significant amount of time due to COVID and a language barrier. “There was no learning in the past. We had to set the rules,” producer Anthony Chen shared, “We were also shooting during COVID – we were trying to make a film of tourists going to Korea…When there are no tourists!”
Hong Hui Fang admits her real-life character differs greatly from her own, so she decided to mish-mash a number of traits and characteristics of different types of aunties and mothers to create a unique character. The story also deals with many complex themes, like the mother-son relationship between Auntie and Sam. “[My character] goes through a lot of complicated emotions that are overwhelming.” Hong Hui Fang shared. She channeled her deepest emotions into portraying the conflict and understanding that unraveled on the journey.
Since it’s a largely Chinese-speaking film, Korean actor Kang Hyungsuk confessed to being extremely worried about preparing for the role. However, when he went on set, he had the support of Hong Hui Fang, the crew, and his interpreter which made the process easier for him. When asked about his favourite Chinese song, Kang Hyungsuk shared that it was 月亮代表我的心 (The Moon Represents My Heart), a popular Chinese ballad.
Catch Ajoomma In Theatres Soon
The movie is short but impactful and portrays the painful yet necessary struggle of taking charge of one’s life. The art direction and cinematography are also stellar, with many shots reminiscent of a classic Korean drama mixed with a recognizable Singaporean touch. A movie definitely worth watching, you can watch Ajoomma in cinemas from 27 October!
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