FILMMAKER and producer Adrian Teh Kean Kok has forged a career that has so far seen him labelled as a man of action. But he is quick to share that it's the influence of strong women that shaped his craft — most notably his mother.
"She's a tough woman," shares Teh, when we speak on the sidelines of the Far East Film Festival in Udine, northern Italy.
The highly acclaimed 39-year-old is in town for the world premiere of his latest film Reversi. It's certainly a change in course from the all-out actioners such as Paskal: The Movie (2018) and Malbatt: Misi Bakara (2023) that have defined the 39-year-old's career so far.
Reversi is a romantic drama that transcends time, but what's familiar is that despite the impressive Shiqin Kamal playing the love interest, it continues Teh's tradition of having a strong woman at its core.
The director attributes this to the influence of his mother, who, as it happened, needed some convincing when the young Teh first shared his dreams of working in cinema. Looking thoughtful, Teh recalls: "My mum objected to my idea of becoming a filmmaker. When I was in school, my grades were okay. So, my mum wanted me to become a doctor, a lawyer — the usual stuff that Chinese parents prefer."
Adding, he continues: "So when I told my mum that I wanted to become a filmmaker, she didn't like it at all. Malaysia is nothing like Hollywood. Filmmaking isn't seen as an option because there's no prospect in it. Back then, the thinking was that there's no way you could make a living from filmmaking."
SEEDS OF PASSION
However, the seeds of his cinematic passion had been sown during a pivotal moment in 1998 while watching Godzilla on the silver screen. "I remember standing in the cinema and wondering how on earth were they able to make this movie," shares Teh, smiling at the memory.
The seamless blend of fantasy and reality left him spellbound, sparking a curiosity that would eventually lead him into the world of filmmaking. Despite facing familial objections, Teh remained undeterred, fuelled by an unwavering determination to pursue his passion.
The journey was fraught with challenges, but he found solace in the unwavering support of his mother, whose initial scepticism eventually evolved into pride as her talented son carved his niche in the industry.
Shares Teh, now a 15-year veteran: "I was stubborn. Mum told me that if I wanted to become a filmmaker, I'd have to find my own way. So, I applied for a scholarship and did so many things. Today, my mum is my No.1 fan."
Chuckling, he adds: "She will literally stalk me. Whatever I've done and have yet to tell her about… well, she would find out somehow. And then she'd immediately say, 'Why are you not telling me about this?'"
POWER OF WOMEN
According to the Penangite, his journey so far — the tough times and the good — has taught him some important life lessons. And these he wants to share with his audiences. "Stay humble. Keep learning. When you think you are the best, there'll always be more for you to do," he says softly.
Raised in a household where hard work and perseverance were revered, the filmmaker shares how he learnt the importance of humility and continuous self-improvement. Reflecting on his upbringing, Teh acknowledges the profound influence of his family's traditional values, particularly the resilience embodied by his mother.
"I respect women," he says, simply, before adding: "You'll notice that in my films, there isn't any weak woman. I tend to portray women as very strong, independent characters. This is something I've made into my signature trademark."
Teh says that his film Reversi explores issues of love, loss and second chances, showcasing multifaceted female characters who lead the narrative. Departing from his action-packed style, Reversi sees the protagonist's wife emerge as a central figure, whose presence looms large even in his absence.
Her love and influence ripple through the narrative, serving as a guiding light for the protagonist (played by Beto Kusyairy) as he grapples with his grief and seeks redemption. As he eagerly shares this cinematic journey with audiences, Teh hopes these women's stories will inspire viewers to cherish life and loved ones, emphasising the transformative power of love, forgiveness, and second chances.
"I've done quite a few action movies in Malaysia and the local media always categorise me as an action movie director," muses Teh, adding in conclusion: "I respect that, but I don't really think I'm just an action movie director. I consider myself more like a storyteller. I'd like to tell stories that intrigue me, that I find interesting and worth my time to tell."
The writer attended the 26th Far East Film Festival as part of the FEFF Campus initiative for aspiring film industry creatives.