Elena

Elena meets Daniel at her part-time workplace. They marry a few years later, and Elena gives birth to Jonathan (Jono). Unexpectedly, Elena's simple life is disrupted when she finds out that Jono is diagnosed with autism at the age of 3. During the next 25 years, Elena keeps searching for therapy and opportunities to help Jono improve his condition, as she is aware that Jono's future is in her own hands. Even though she endures unimaginable frustration, discrimination, pressure, chaos, exhaustion, and disappointment throughout the years, she never gives up on helping Jono to have a better life. With her endless love and tireless effort, Jono goes from a speechless and overactive kid to a university graduate.

  • Nancy Ma
    Director
  • Nancy Ma
    Writer
  • Nancy Ma
    Producer
  • Elena Lau
    Key Cast
    "Elena (herself)"
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    5 minutes 50 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 20, 2022
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    Yue Chinese (Cantonese)
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Sydney
Director Biography - Nancy Ma

Born in Hong Kong and currently residing in Australia, Nancy Ma possesses a unique blend of professional expertise in management and creativity, setting her apart as an exceptional film producer, director, and screenwriter.

As the director of a leading multicultural marketing company, Nancy showcased remarkable administrative and managerial skills as a team builder and personnel motivator. She takes charge of strategic planning, budgeting, project launches, and promotional activities while maintaining strong connections with media and government entities.

Nancy's creativity shines through her work as a Chinese writer, copy/scriptwriter, and Chinese/English translator. With diverse experience working with creative and production teams, Nancy excels from pre-production to post-production including using programs like Ps, Pr, Ae and Ai, among others. Her extensive travel experience across the world has enabled her to connect with a wide range of people, lives, and culture, making her storytelling more realistic and down to earth. Notably, her imminent completion of a Master's in Moving Image adds an extra layer of distinction to her profile within the film industry.

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Director Statement

This is a real-life story told by Elena, who originally comes from Hong Kong. I have known her for over 30 years through my voluntary work with children with disabilities. I have witnessed her efforts in raising her autistic son. However, during the interview for this shooting, she revealed the pain of losing her baby, which has become her life's regret—not because she has an autistic son. This work also acknowledges Elena's ongoing efforts to pass on her love and care to others as a volunteer, helping those in similar situations.