Waiters

Ever heard of Brunei? Well, Brunei is a small nation in Southeast Asia, remains largely unnoticed on the global stage. The country's film industry is modest, producing movies infrequently and keeping them within its borders. Brunei tends to shy away from international festivals, preferring to maintain a low profile.
In my second attempt at writing and directing, I embarked on the creation of "Waiters." With a limited budget, I adhered to the traditional three-act structure to portray everyday conversations among Bruneians in their native language. The underlying message of the film is a call to action – encouraging individuals to take charge of their lives rather than passively waiting for opportunities. This resonates with my own journey of self-discovery before delving into a 136-page narrative centered around waiters and infused with Bruneian cultural elements.
The film's message extends beyond Brunei; it's a personal commitment to becoming a skilled filmmaker. Facing constraints, I conveyed my thoughts through a comedic lens, aiming for relatability across the region. Drawing inspiration from filmmakers like Kevin Smith and Edgar Wright, I opted for a minimal crew, largely comprised of friends and family, and set the story in a single location for a realistic portrayal of a day in the life.
The characters and plot are designed for broader Asian resonance, delving into the universal struggle of figuring out one's life path. The film emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passion, echoing the sentiment of being a guiding force amidst the challenges of life, urging, "Chase what you love, not what they tell you!" – a metaphorical call to action.