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Space

Space, sheds light on the myth of sex predators and the prejudice against trans people. Following Lee’s journey of confronting her own fear, hallucination and inner struggle, we eventually discovered a small yet powerful space that truly embraces everyone’s identity in this judgemental society. This bittersweet yet heart-warming tale celebrates diversity, inclusion and self-acceptance, offering a beacon of hope in a world often plagued by bias and discrimination.

  • Lee Li
    Director
  • Lee Li
    Writer
  • Lee Li
    Producer
  • Lee Li
    Key Cast
  • Sofia Hernandez
    Key Cast
  • Alfie Haoyun Ma
    Key Cast
  • Xinyi Zhou
    Key Cast
  • Tom Lear
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    2 minutes 25 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    October 31, 2023
  • Country of Origin:
    New Zealand
  • Country of Filming:
    New Zealand
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    iPhone 4K at 24 FPS
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Auckland
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • Day One Film Challenge
    Auckland
    New Zealand
    Judge's Choice Award
  • Lift-Off Global

    Offical Selection
Director Biography - Lee Li

Lee Li is a transgender filmmaker, asylum seeker, advocate and Chinese diaspora, based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawing from her unique experience and duo-identity as trans asylum seeker, Li makes films that amplify the voice of the voiceless. “For many of my subjects and characters, their voice is not one of the millions but the voice of millions”. Li is currently honing her filmmaking skills at the University of Auckland.

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Director Statement

There is no 'space' for us. If we can't use male or female toilets, then where is the space for us?
The answer is simple - the human heart, the borderless space, the sense of inclusion and acceptance—is the true space where we all belong, transcending the cold, solid walls.

Trans people often find themselves hiding in the shadows, denied even the basic human right of using the toilet. This day-to-day practice should be accessible to all, including trans people, who deserve to use the toilet they wish, just as any other person does. It's time to move past harmful stereotypes and fears of sex predators and recognize that our trans children deserve to grow into young, amazing trans adults without facing discrimination.

Through my film, 'Space,' I seek to challenge these societal norms and open a dialogue about acceptance and understanding. Following Lee's journey as she confronts her fears, hallucinations, and inner struggles, we discover a small yet powerful space that truly embraces everyone's identity in a judgmental society. This bittersweet yet heart-warming tale celebrates diversity, inclusion, and self-acceptance, offering a beacon of hope in a world too often plagued by bias and discrimination.

In 'Space,' we find that the real space for us is in the human heart, where everyone is welcome.