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Ah-Ma: A Tale of Two Generations

Ah-Ma is a captivating narrative that delves into the lives of two remarkable women from different worlds and generations. Born in Taiwan, Na-Na's early years were colored by the enchanting presence of her grandmother, Ah-Ma. However, at the tender age of four, she returned to Australia, leaving behind the profound influence of Ah-Ma, a celebrated Taiwanese Opera actress renowned for her powerful performances in Gezaixi. Ah-Ma's legacy imprinted deeply upon Na-Na, igniting in her a fervent desire to follow in her grandmother's footsteps and become an opera actress herself. As the film unfolds, the haunting melodies of Gezaixi's songs resound, serving as a poignant backdrop to the emotions of longing and connection that thread through the narrative.

  • Ying Chu
    Director
  • Ying Chu
    Writer
  • Ying Chu
    Producer
  • Rui-Yi Chang
    Producer
  • Emmie Chew
    Key Cast
  • HOPE
    Key Cast
  • Judy Fan
    Key Cast
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    阿嬤
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 36 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 14, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    10,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia, Taiwan
  • Language:
    Chinese - Min Nan, English
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - Edith Cowan University
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • Diversity in Cannes Short Film & Webseries Showcase
    Cannes
    France
  • WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival
    Houston
    United States
    Award Winner
  • Independent Shorts Awards
    LA
    United States
    Best Student Short-Silver Award
  • IndieX Film Fest
    LA
    United States
    Award Winner
  • Rajasthan International Film Festival - RIFF 2024
    Jaipur
    India
    January 27, 2024
    Best Student International Short- Special Jury Award
  • Setting Sun Film Festival
    Melbourne
    Australia
    May 13, 2024
    Offical Selection
  • Sydney Women’s International Film Festival
    Sydney
    Australia
  • Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival
    Toronto
    Canada
    Finalist
  • Hobnobben Film Festival
    Wayne
    United States
    Finalist
Director Biography - Ying Chu

Ying, hailing from Taiwan, completed the UNI Preparation course at Edith Cowan University in 2019. In 2020, her passion for screen production led her to specialize in producing and directing, resulting in four independent film projects at the university, including two short documentaries, one dance film, and one short drama film. Ying's works have garnered acclaim at international film festivals. Her ultimate aspiration is to create pieces that harmoniously blend Western and Eastern cultures, highlighting diversity on a global scale and leaving a lasting impact.

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Director Statement

"Ah-Ma" is a story about two generations in an Asian family. As an immigrant in Australia, I deeply miss my hometown and family, especially after two years of COVID blockade. I believe I am not alone in this experience; the emotion is intense and unforgettable. This film, "Ah-Ma," was born from that poignant time.
Gezaixi, Taiwanese opera, is an element of traditional culture featured in "Ah-Ma." In my previous works, art and culture have always been my favourite topics, and I find Gezaixi particularly beautiful in this story. The concept of "home" in an Asian family, especially for women, holds great significance and often represents an inescapable bond.
In "Ah-Ma," you will encounter three different women: Ah-Ma, a traditional Asian woman; a mother navigating life as an immigrant; and Na-Na, a confident Asian girl growing up in a Western country. This dynamic mirrors my own transformation from an Asian to a Western environment.
Working with my team and performers, we overcame numerous challenges, including location and language barriers, to complete this short film. Emmie, as Na-Na, didn't speak Taiwanese or know the traditional dance, making our practice and rehearsals unforgettable. Our team, composed of film school students from both Taiwan and Australia, collaborated seamlessly. Over nine months, we brought this story to life and are excited to share it internationally.