Description

Writer-Director Boo Junfeng, whose debut feature, SANDCASTLE, was the first Singaporean film to be invited to the International Critics’ Week at Cannes, returns with the deeply emotional and unravelling APPRENTICE.

Junfeng intricately portrays Aiman, who navigates a new job as a prison guard while living with his older sister Suhaila. At work, Aiman slowly reveals a fascination with the chief executioner, Rahim. As Rahim and Aiman develop a friendship, and Aiman later becomes his apprentice, Aiman’s personal and professional life begin to unravel as old scars are revealed that connect Rahim to Aiman and Suhaila in deep ways. Can Aiman overcome the ghosts of his past and develop the moral compass and emotional strength to become an executioner, or are his motives more than meets the eye?

Junfeng’s research into the Singaporean justice system and interviews with former executioners, imams and priests are evident in the portrayal of the Aiman’s daily work with the weathered Rahim, resulting in an experience that feels authentic at its core. The slow-burn tension and powerful performances blend to create a truly intriguing film.

— Brian Ray

Co-presented by: SingaporeConnect

Credits

Writer: Boo Junfeng
Executive Producers: Alvin Chau, Eric Khoo, Subi Liang, Ho-Cheung Pang, Paige Parker, Jim Rogers, Alex Tong
Producers: Raymond Phathanavirangoon, Fran Borgia, Tan Fong Cheng
Cinematographer: Benoit Soler
Editors: Natalie Soh, Lee Chatametikool
Music: Alexander Zekke, Matthew James Kelly
Cast: Firdaus Rahman, Wan Hanafi Su

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