My Mother

This Mother's Day documentary short film is dedicated to my mother, a food delivery rider. It shows every aspect of a life of a food delivery rider in Singapore. The daily sacrifices they make to provide for their families, while also making a difference in the lives of others. This film is also a tribute to all mothers who work tirelessly to support their families and make the world better, one delivery at a time.

  • Yong Yao Tam
    Director
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Writer
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Producer
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Director Of Photography
  • Jerrine Toh
    Key Cast
    "Lao Bu"
  • Bruno Hman
    Production Advisor
  • Gaven Peh
    Production Advisor
  • Bruno Hman
    Thumbnail/Poster Design
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Thumbnail/Poster Design
  • Shirley
    Special Appearance
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Sound & Light
  • Yong Yao Tam
    Editor & Colourist
  • Project Title (Original Language):
    My Lao Bu
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Runtime:
    14 minutes 2 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    May 14, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    3,700 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Singapore
  • Country of Filming:
    Singapore
  • Language:
    Chinese
  • Shooting Format:
    h.264, HEVC, iPhone 14 Pro Max
  • Aspect Ratio:
    4032:1704
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Yong Yao Tam

Tam Yong Yao is a talented Singaporean-Chinese director, born on February 28, 2002, with an unwavering passion for film and storytelling. From a young age, Yong Yao was captivated by the power of cinema and its ability to inspire, evoke emotions, and shed light on diverse human experiences.

Yong Yao drew inspiration from renowned Singaporean filmmakers such as Royston Tan and Anthony Chen, who have made significant contributions to the local film industry with their distinctive storytelling styles and poignant narratives. Their works served as a catalyst for Yong Yao's own creative journey, motivating him to explore his unique voice as a director.

Additionally, filmmakers like Christopher Nolan and Steven Soderbergh played a crucial role in shaping Yong Yao's artistic vision. Their mastery of the craft and their ability to push boundaries in storytelling inspired him to aspire for excellence and embrace innovative approaches to filmmaking.

In 2023, Yong Yao made his directorial debut with the short film "My Lao Bu" (or "My Mother" in English), a heartfelt tribute to food delivery riders in Singapore. The film artfully captured the multifaceted lives of these individuals, highlighting their daily sacrifices to support their families while also making a positive impact on the lives of others. Through this project, Yong Yao aimed to shed light on the often underappreciated contributions of food delivery riders and celebrate the unwavering dedication of mothers who tirelessly work to create a better world for their families.

Yong Yao's directorial style encompasses a compassionate and empathetic approach to storytelling, delving into the human condition and exploring social realities with authenticity. His commitment to portraying the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people resonates with audiences and underscores his desire to create films that inspire empathy, understanding, and positive change.

With a profound love for film, an unwavering dedication to storytelling, and the influences of notable filmmakers, Tam Yong Yao is poised to make a significant impact on the cinematic landscape. As he continues to evolve as a director, audiences can anticipate thought-provoking narratives and visually compelling storytelling that reflect his unique perspective as a Singaporean-Chinese filmmaker.

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Director Statement

My name is Tam Yong Yao, a Singaporean-Chinese filmmaker born in 2002. From a young age, I discovered my passion for filmmaking through the joy of creating short videos with my friends. This early exploration sparked a deep love for the art form that continues to drive me today.

One of my primary motivations as a director is to showcase different perspectives from diverse individuals. I believe that cinema has the extraordinary ability to shed light on unique stories and experiences, fostering empathy and understanding among audiences. Through my films, I aim to capture the essence of these varied perspectives, creating a platform for dialogue and connection.

For me, filmmaking is a way to express what is inside me, as I often find it challenging to fully articulate my thoughts and emotions through words alone. The visual medium allows me to convey my deepest feelings, thoughts, and beliefs, offering a powerful and immersive experience for viewers.

In crafting my films, my vision is to create a realistic and sympathetic portrayal of the human experience. I aspire to touch the hearts of audiences by exploring themes that resonate universally, encouraging them to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. It is my goal to forge a genuine connection with viewers, evoking emotions and sparking meaningful conversations long after the credits roll.

The driving force behind my work is a profound love for storytelling and the desire to convey valuable messages. I find great joy in unravelling the layers of a meaningful story and uncovering the valuable insights and lessons it holds. It is this passion that fuels my dedication to filmmaking, as I aim to leave a lasting impact through the stories I tell.

In my approach to filmmaking, I strive to let my imagination run free, creating vibrant and evocative scenes that serve the story. I am not confined to any particular genre or style, as I believe that true creativity knows no boundaries. By embracing this freedom, I can authentically express the essence of the narrative and engage viewers in unexpected and compelling ways.

In summary, my directorial journey is driven by a deep-rooted passion for film, a commitment to sharing diverse perspectives, and a devotion to meaningful storytelling. Through realistic and sympathetic visions, I aim to connect with audiences, spark meaningful conversations, and leave a lasting impact on both individuals and society as a whole.