Film by 7 top local directors to premiere at refurbished Capitol Theatre next year

Film by 7 top local directors to premiere at refurbished Capitol Theatre next year

SINGAPORE - Singapore's seven most illustrious filmmakers - Eric Khoo, Jack Neo, Kelvin Tong, Tan Pin Pin, Roystan Tan, Boo Junfeng and K. Rajagopal - will be collaborating on a first-of-its-kind film that will premiere in 2015.

The film will be an omnibus of seven short stories, each being a unique interpretation of Singapore and its people.

It will premiere at the Capitol Theatre, one of Singapore's oldest cinemas, and coincides with Singapore's 50th year jubilee celebrations next year.

Capitol Theatre will be re-opening next year after a 17-year hiatus. When ready, the 900-seat theatre will be Southeast Asia's biggest single-screen cinema, and will be the only dual usage theatre in town, catering to both performing arts and cinematic purposes.

Mr Pua Seck Guan, Director of Capitol Investment Holdings Pte. Ltd., said that the Capitol Theatre is culturally significant to Singapore's history and film industry.

"The tribute by our local filmmakers will also mark the historic landmark's return as an anchor to the local cinematic scene," he said.

For Royston Tan, having his work showcased at the majestic Capitol Theatre has always been the dream.

"To be able to showcase our work in Capitol Theatre is an inspiration for many of us, and it is such a privilege to be able to partner the theatre for this milestone project, to celebrate our nation's journey, and reflect on our future ahead," the 881 director said.

Similarly, K Rajagopal said that the restored Capitol theatre marks a new era of Singapore film, bridging the golden days of Singapore cinema with today's resurgence of the local film industry.

Eric Khoo said, "When I was young, watching a film at the Capitol Theatre always felt like a special treat.

"With its re-opening next year, I hope our film, screened in this iconic venue, will leave audience with the same sense of awe, and will continue to inspire the next generation of filmmakers."

More details on the film, the stories and its cast will be announced later this year.

The film is being made with the support of the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) and the Singapore Film Commission (SFC).

seanyap@sph.com.sg

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