Save My Soul
我是猫
HONG KONG, NEPAL | 2023 | Drama | Short | 14min
Director:LEUNG Kam Fai
Screenwriter:LEUNG Kam Fai
Producer:Min Bahadur Bham, Lau Chi Fan Gigi
Director of Photography: Yung Tze Hong
Editor: Ho Ka Chun
Sound Design: Choi Chun Hei Jacky; Chia Fu
Synopsis
Weary of discrimination, a young mute seeks a new life in a valley. But wilderness living proves harsh, with survival a daily struggle. Inspiration strikes when he encounters cats fed by a blind man. Envisioning a life as a feline, the mute finds refuge in the man's home. Cuddled in the man's bed, the mute experiences newfound tenderness and momentarily, forgets his true identity. All that matters is their need for each other - a feeling he has never known before.
Festival&Award
Psarokokalo International Short Film Festival selected
New York Asian Film Festival selected
Vancouver International Film Festival
- Official Selection
Director's Note
The story's inspiration came from two phenomena. Firstly, a friend of mine adopted an affectionate cat that loved to lift its bottom high and be petted all day long. Secondly, I came across information about pederasty in ancient Greece. It referred to a relationship between an older man and a boy that was recognised and even idealised in society at that time. The former imparted his knowledge and skills, while the latter reciprocated with a promise of physical affection and love.
Both illustrate the beauty and naturalness of intimate behaviour between individuals who share trust and fondness. The film seeks to preserve these fleeting moments, allowing viewers to appreciate and experience intimacy from a safe distance.
LEUNG Kam Fai 梁錦輝
LEUNG studied economics, but his true calling is in film. He started as an apprentice under acclaimed director CHEUNG Chi-leung Jacob. His short The Captive and the Fugitive tells the story of a couple who make a film that doesn't follow conventions. The latest work, Save My Soul – winner of the Eye Catcher Global 2023 International Pitching Forum Jury Award, depicts the transformation of a mute person due to loneliness.