Title: Sabah-Made Film ‘Maria’ Explores Love, Loss, and Grudges with an Unexpected Twist
The curtains fell on the 14th Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival (KKIFF) with a captivating screening of three films, including the Sabah-made feature Maria. Directed by Ryot Ujin, Maria delves into the profound emotions of love, loss, and grudges, offering a surprising plot twist that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
The storyline centers around Maria, a woman who experiences a traumatic childhood when she loses her parents in a hit-and-run accident caused by a wealthy young couple. This tragic event leaves Maria harbouring a deep grudge against the affluent. As she enters her teenage years, she finds love with Randy. However, their relationship is challenged by societal pressures and differences in social status.
Years later, Maria’s old grudge resurfaces when Randy chooses to marry Serina, a beautiful woman from a wealthy family. Determined to win back her lover, Maria is willing to risk everything, even her own life.
Ryot Ujin, the director and writer of Maria, drew inspiration from the real-life stories of individuals close to him, including his mother and friends who have experienced heartbreak. He aimed to explore the lengths people would go to for love, including acts of betrayal and sacrifice. By infusing the film with a plot twist, Ujin aimed to elevate the storytelling and capture the complexities of human emotions.
Ryot Ujin is an accomplished director, producer, and writer, with a deep passion for filmmaking. His journey in the Sabah film industry began in 2006, and over the years, he has gained invaluable experience working both within and outside of Sabah. Ujin’s dedication to his craft led him to discover his true calling in directing, and he has since directed and produced a local telemovie series called Kobilangan, as well as short films that have earned him recognition at various film festivals.
In addition to Maria, two other films were screened at the KKIFF. Silent Talk, directed by Rendro Aryo from Indonesia, explores the existential questions of identity and the power of silence. The film follows Monalisa, who is haunted by mysterious voices that disrupt her reality. Through her journey, the film invites viewers to reflect on the depths of their own memories and the challenges of self-discovery.
Dog Eaters, directed by Kevin Pison Piamonte from the Philippines, tackles the timeless theme of women’s struggles in society. The film tells the story of Mariana, who faces obstacles such as an unemployed husband and an unexpected pregnancy. Determined to break free, Mariana must make difficult choices that challenge societal norms and traditions. Piamonte’s film highlights the ongoing battle for women’s rights and individuality, reminding audiences not to overlook marginalized perspectives.
The KKIFF screenings concluded with these thought-provoking films, offering viewers a diverse range of narratives and perspectives. The festival served as a platform to showcase local talent like Ryot Ujin and promote cultural exchange through cinema.
For those who missed the screenings, tickets were available online via kkiff.com or at the cinema ticket counter. The KKIFF continues to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers and celebrates the power of storytelling through film. Stay up-to-date with the latest news and events by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
