By admin 
ARP Selection, a distinguished French arthouse distribution company with a recent track record of success in bringing critically acclaimed international cinema to French audiences, including the production and release of Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague,” has secured the distribution rights for Anthony Chen’s poignant and critically lauded film, “We Are All Strangers.” This acquisition marks a significant moment, as “We Are All Strangers” holds the distinction of being the first Singaporean film ever selected to compete in the prestigious Berlinale (Berlin International Film Festival), a testament to its artistic merit and compelling narrative. The deal underscores ARP Selection’s commitment to championing diverse voices and groundbreaking cinema on the global stage.
The acquisition by ARP Selection is particularly noteworthy given the film’s international representation by Paradise City Sales, a sales agent known for its discerning taste in arthouse cinema. “We Are All Strangers” is not merely a standalone film; it represents the culmination of Anthony Chen’s deeply personal and critically acclaimed “Growing Up” trilogy. This ambitious cinematic endeavor began with “Ilo Ilo,” a film that garnered international acclaim and secured the prestigious Camera d’Or for best first film at the Cannes Film Festival, establishing Chen as a filmmaker of exceptional talent and profound insight. The trilogy continued with “Wet Season,” a film that further solidified Chen’s reputation for exploring complex familial relationships and the nuances of human emotion with remarkable sensitivity. “We Are All Strangers” now serves as the poignant conclusion to this remarkable body of work, bringing together themes and stylistic approaches that have defined Chen’s artistic trajectory.
At its core, “We Are All Strangers” is a deeply resonant portrait of contemporary Singapore, a vibrant metropolis that often masks underlying societal fissures. The film bravely delves into the pervasive issue of class inequalities, examining how economic disparities shape individual lives and family dynamics. More profoundly, it embarks on a sensitive exploration of the very definition of family in the modern age, questioning traditional structures and celebrating the diverse forms that kinship can take. This thematic richness is further amplified by the return of the exceptional acting duo Yeo Yann Yann and Koh Jia Ler, whose unforgettable performances in the preceding films of the trilogy earned them widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Their on-screen chemistry and profound emotional depth were instrumental in the success of both “Ilo Ilo” and “Wet Season,” and their reunion in “We Are All Strangers” promises to deliver yet another masterclass in acting. Yeo Yann Yann’s talent was recognized with the Golden Horse Award for best supporting actress for her role in “Ilo Ilo,” and she went on to win the best actress award for her powerful performance in “Wet Season.” Koh Jia Ler, a prodigious young actor, also garnered significant recognition, having been nominated twice at the Golden Horse Awards for his contributions to the trilogy, showcasing his remarkable maturity and talent from a young age. Their continued collaboration with Chen speaks to a shared artistic vision and a profound understanding of the characters they embody.
Michèle Halberstadt, the CEO of ARP Selection, expressed her profound enthusiasm for the acquisition, articulating a deep connection to Chen’s latest work. “We simply fell in love with this family, and with the way Anthony Chen depicts the dreams, the failures, the intimacy of each of its members,” Halberstadt stated. Her words convey a genuine appreciation for the film’s emotional authenticity and its ability to capture the universal human experience. She further elaborated on Chen’s directorial prowess, noting, “He does so with a grace and a tenderness that extends from its characters to Singapore itself, the city they call home. A deeply moving film which we are very proud to introduce to French audiences.” This statement highlights the film’s dual achievement: its intimate focus on a specific family’s journey and its broader commentary on the social fabric of Singapore. ARP Selection’s commitment to introducing such a “deeply moving film” to French audiences underscores their role as curators of meaningful and impactful cinema.
The narrative of “We Are All Strangers” centers on the experiences of 21-year-old Junyang, a young man navigating the complexities of early adulthood with a sense of aimlessness. His father, meanwhile, quietly grapples with the economic pressures of maintaining their modest household, a stark illustration of the struggles faced by many families in Singapore. The film takes an unexpected turn when Junyang’s relationship with his girlfriend reaches a critical juncture, forcing the young couple to confront the responsibilities of adulthood sooner than they had ever anticipated. Simultaneously, the father’s life is disrupted by the arrival of a vibrant woman, whose presence introduces a new dynamic and unsettles the delicate equilibrium that has long existed between father and son. This intricate interplay of generational challenges, personal aspirations, and evolving relationships forms the emotional core of the film, promising a rich tapestry of human drama.
Anthony Chen, a visionary filmmaker with a keen eye for detail and a profound understanding of human psychology, produced “We Are All Strangers” through his Singapore-based production company, Giraffe Pictures. The project benefited from significant backing and support from a range of influential institutions, including the Singapore Film Commission, the Red Sea Film Fund, and the MPA APSA Academy Film Fund. This multifaceted financial support underscores the international recognition and belief in Chen’s artistic vision and the film’s potential impact. The esteemed Joe Tsai, Arthur Wang, and K.H. Kuok served as executive producers, lending their expertise and support to bring this ambitious project to fruition. Their involvement further highlights the film’s global appeal and the collaborative spirit that underpins its production.
The success of “We Are All Strangers” at the Berlinale and its subsequent acquisition by ARP Selection also casts a spotlight on the broader landscape of Singaporean cinema. The film’s historic competition entry signifies a growing recognition of the quality and diversity of storytelling emerging from the nation. This achievement is likely to inspire future filmmakers and further elevate Singapore’s presence on the international film circuit. The film’s narrative, which tackles universal themes of family, class, and identity within a distinctly Singaporean context, offers audiences a unique window into the complexities of modern Asian society.
Paradise City Sales’ representation of “We Are All Strangers” at international markets has been instrumental in securing its global reach. Their portfolio of acclaimed films includes another notable Berlinale competition entry, “Wolfram,” directed by the celebrated Warwick Thornton. This association with other high-caliber arthouse films further solidifies Paradise City Sales’ position as a leading force in the international film sales arena and speaks to the discerning selection process that guides their acquisitions. The partnership between Paradise City Sales and ARP Selection for “We Are All Strangers” represents a strategic alliance that promises to bring this significant Singaporean cinematic achievement to a wider audience, fostering cross-cultural appreciation for compelling storytelling. The film’s journey from its premiere at the Berlinale to its distribution in France is a testament to its artistic power and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences worldwide. ARP Selection’s decision to distribute “We Are All Strangers” is not just a business transaction; it is an endorsement of Anthony Chen’s filmmaking prowess and a celebration of the rich and evolving landscape of global cinema.