Private Project

Lily

Lillian, a young woman whose life has been marked by the trauma of living with her abusive stepfather, becomes the prime suspect when he dies under suspicious circumstances. Alex, a police officer, is assigned to investigate the case. During their first encounter, they recognize each other as long-lost childhood friends, a connection that complicates the investigation.

As Alex delves deeper, he uncovers the years of pain and suffering Lillian has endured. While the evidence increasingly points to her as the culprit, Alex finds himself torn between his duty to the law and his desire to help someone he once deeply cared for. In the end, Alex makes the choice to help Lillian step out of the shadows, leaving her painful past behind and finding hope in a brighter future.

  • Chloe Liu
    Director
  • Chloe Liu
    Writer
  • Xingyu Chen
    Director of Photography
  • Aithan Wang
    Producer
  • Yulin Zhu
    Production Designer
  • Daniel Jongma
    Key Cast
    "Alex"
  • Bella Kendrigan
    Key Cast
    "Lilian"
  • Project Type:
    Feature, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 41 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    November 19, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    14,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Australia
  • Country of Filming:
    Australia
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.0：1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes - The University of Sydney
Director Biography - Chloe Liu

Chloe Liu is a director and writer based in Sydney. Raised in the Tongzhou District of Beijing, she received a traditional Chinese education and never imagined a future in film production. However, her studies in Network and New Media at the Communication University of China sparked her passion for the media industry. While there, she contributed to the documentary ”Alley Steward“, which won the 10th China Documentary Academy Award for Best Short Documentary.

After graduating, Chloe joined the Creative Visual Department at Xiaomi, where she played a key role in the production of numerous television commercials (TVCs) for the mobile brand. From concept development to post-production, she worked on a wide range of campaigns, honing her skills in storytelling, editing, and creative collaboration. This hands-on experience allowed her to deepen her understanding of visual communication and develop a strong foundation in advertising.

Inspired by her work in the industry, Chloe decided to pursue her dream of making short films. Two years into her career, she enrolled in the Master of Moving Image program at the Sydney College of the Arts. There, she began writing, directing, and producing her own films, including “Villainy”, which was selected for the Sydney College of the Arts' 2024 MMI SHOWCASE.

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Director Statement

“Lily” explores themes of domestic violence, revenge, and dream, depicting a girl’s journey toward self-redemption under the shadow of abuse. Domestic violence remains a critical social issue, leaving lasting scars from one’s upbringing. Through her efforts, Lillian strives to overcome the impact of her abusive family and never gives up hope for a brighter future. Although the film shows her using questionable means for revenge against her father, which is not condoned, the intention is to inspire women facing similar darkness. It encourages them to resist their circumstances and emerge into the light, refusing to let past misfortunes define their entire lives.

The overall pace and tone of the film are relatively slow and gentle, and it unfolds the story of Lillian and Alex's mutual redemption through the investigation of a case. Visually, we used a contrast between warm and cool tones: warm tones depict a fantasy style dominated by flower shop scenes, highlighting Lillian's inner kindness and the warmth given to her by the people around her, while cool tones emphasize Lillian’s solitude and helplessness during the period when she confronts the crime. This choice of color palette will suggest her tragic past and her resolve to seek revenge.

Inspired by works like “Decision to Leave”, “The Falling Trial”, and “Into the White Night”, this film delves into complex human emotions and relationships, shedding light on resilience, redemption, and the pursuit of hope. Through a carefully crafted narrative, evocative visuals, and poignant sound design, “Lily” aspires to not only tell a compelling story but also spark meaningful reflection on social issues and the indomitable spirit of individuals seeking light amidst darkness.