Taylor’s University Hosts a Night to Remember at TUFF 2024

Nafisa Labib Interviewing the Cast and Team of "The Manggis in Ah Gong's Hands" who are the winners of TUFF 2024, Image by Timothy Zhao

SUBANG JAYA, SELANGOR - After four successful years since its start in 2019, the 2024 Taylor's University Film Festival (TUFF) concluded with a spectacular awards ceremony. With 113 films submitted from countries including the US, UK, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan, TUFF this year showcased the work of young filmmakers from all around the world.

The month-long festival, which was organized by the School of Media and Communication (SOMAC), gave aspiring filmmakers a stage on which to study and share their work through film screenings, workshops, and discussions. Impressive events included hands-on classes with DJI Malaysia and thought-provoking talks made possible by FINAS, ACE Pictures, and RED Communications.

On awards night, 11 films were nominated, one of which was a short film made by a student at Taylor's University. The Manggis in Ah Gong's Hands was the night's high point; they won six prizes, including best picture, best cinematography, best actor, best director, sound design, and narrative.

Dr. Barry Winn, vice chancellor, praised the festival, calling it "a vibrant platform where young minds can exchange experiences and produce innovative stories." Prema Ponnudurai, Head of the School of Media and Communication, emphasized the festival's purpose of empowering young people, saying, "Through TUFF, we aim to ignite passion, celebrate creativity, and honour excellence in filmmaking."

Taylor University's standing as a pioneer in media and communication studies was furthered with TUFF 2024, an event that celebrated storytelling, creativity, and the power of film. As the event concluded, there was an abundance of excitement and anticipation for the future projects these talented filmmakers will undoubtedly pursue.