Mindfulness

In a bustling café, James, an aspiring student in his early 20s, struggles with distractions while attempting to work on assignments. He types and deletes content in frustration. Amidst his muttering, he contemplates the lack of time for numerous tasks. He touches a cold coffee cup, symbolizing his stalled progress. A rowdy crowd disrupts him, and he reflects on his difficulties focusing. A memory of advice to keep a diary as a symptom management tool emerges.

James recalls interactions with his father about his struggles to focus and a potential diagnosis of ADHD. He confides in his friend Lara, who shares her own experience with ADHD and suggests seeking professional help. James reluctantly considers therapy, where he learns that medications are a tool, not a cure, and that diary-keeping can aid symptom management.

Struggling to overcome his reliance on medication, James embraces the idea of taking responsibility for his actions. With renewed determination, he works on his assignments, eventually leaving the café with a sense of empowerment to face life's challenges.

Fade out, portraying James' readiness to confront whatever life may bring.

  • Edmundo Lee Yan Hang
    Director
  • Teo Chee Leong
    Writer
  • Edmundo Lee Yan Hang
    Writer
  • Teo Chee Leong
    Producer
  • Issac Hoong
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    8 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    August 7, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Malaysia
  • Country of Filming:
    Malaysia
  • Language:
    English, Mandarin Chinese, Yue Chinese (Cantonese)
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2:35:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Edmundo Lee Yan Hang

Edmundo Lee Yan Hang, a Chinese Malaysian, was born on 13 October 2002 and reared in Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia. As a child, he had a special connection to Sabah because he is half Sabahan and half Perakian. Each year, he traveled to Sabah, where his father's relatives reside, to gain a deeper understanding of his cultural roots.

Edmundo received his SPM certificate from SMK Bandar Baru Sungai Long, where he excelled academically and graduated with honors. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Digital Film Production at Sunway University. In addition to his academic pursuits, he developed a passion for numerous activities. One of which is badminton, in which he demonstrates his skills and appreciates the competitive nature of the sport. In addition, he engages in creative activities such as video editing and the creation of short videos, which enable him to express his artistic side.

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Director Statement

Our film on ADHD delves into the deeply personal journey of James, a young student navigating the challenges of life with this condition. Through the lens of this narrative, we aim to shed light on the often misunderstood world of ADHD and the power of self-acceptance and management.

In the bustling café where our story unfolds, we've meticulously crafted an environment that mirrors the chaos and distraction that individuals with ADHD often face in their daily lives. Through the use of visual and auditory cues, we immerse the audience into James' world, allowing them to experience the frustration, anxiety, and isolation that can accompany this condition.

James' internal struggle, his contemplation of time slipping away, and his interactions with his father and friend Lara are designed to resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of ADHD. We want viewers to connect with James on a deep emotional level, whether they themselves have ADHD or know someone who does.

Throughout the film, we emphasize the importance of seeking professional help and understanding that medication, while a valuable tool, is not a magic solution. Therapy becomes a turning point for James, and we hope to convey the message that therapy and self-awareness can be transformative for individuals with ADHD.

Ultimately, our film is a story of empowerment and resilience. James' journey from frustration to acceptance, and his decision to take responsibility for his actions, is a powerful message of hope and inspiration. We want our audience to leave the film not only with a better understanding of ADHD but also with a sense of compassion and the belief that individuals with ADHD can thrive when given the right support and tools.

Through our storytelling and visual choices, we aim to create an authentic and empathetic portrayal of ADHD that encourages dialogue, breaks down stigma, and fosters a more inclusive and understanding society