“I was always motivated by and aware of aesthetics and emotive storytelling, which is the basis of narrative film. My experience shows that, unlike music or certain forms of visual art, the capacity to make a film is based more on a person’s character and desire to create rather than theory.”

Meet Alex B., a Grade 10 student who joined ISKL in August 2024 and has made a remarkable impact in and out of the classroom. Hailing from Hong Kong and having recently moved to Kuala Lumpur, he brings a unique perspective to ISKL’s vibrant community.

Most recently, Alex earned an Honorable Mention at the UDEM International Student Film Festival for the film They Seek which also premiered at the recent IASAS Culcon in November 2024.

Here is Alex’s story:

Can you tell us more about yourself?

I’m originally from Hong Kong and moved to Malaysia about a year and a half ago. KL is not much different from what I’m used to as a major metropolis.

Which grade did you join ISKL? What were your first days like?

I joined ISKL this year in Grade 10. My first days were more comfortable than I imagined. I was received, accepted, and guided by both students and teachers. I almost immediately found myself in groups with shared interests, such as film.

Congrats on receiving an Honourable Mention at the UDEM International Student Film Festival for the film “They Seek.” Tell us how you felt when you found out about the mention.

More than anything, I was honored that anyone outside our school community had seen and appreciated the film.

Who are your biggest influences in filmmaking, and how have they shaped your style?

My greatest influence in film is the Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai. Though ‘They Seek’ is distinctly different from his usual storytelling, I tried to channel his affinity for realism, action chases, and thematic colors in its production. I’d like to do more in his style in the future.

Have you always been interested in film? Do you have any advice for budding filmmakers in the ISKL community?

I have not always been interested in film. The film class I’m taking this year is the first I’ve ever taken, and I’ve never taken a shot at filmmaking in any capacity before that. Still, I was always motivated by and aware of aesthetics and emotive storytelling, which is the basis of narrative film. My experience shows that, unlike music or certain forms of visual art, the capacity to make a film is based more on a person’s character and desire to create rather than theory.

Do you participate in any other co-curricular activities at ISKL? Please describe them.

Another activity I’ve participated in for the first time this year is the Model United Nations (MUN).

What are your plans for after you graduate from ISKL?

I plan to go to university in the UK. As of now, my mind is set on politics and economics, though my desire for my future often changes month to month. Who knows — maybe I’ll decide to do film full-time.

What does “Know yourself, care for all, and create a better world” “mean to you?

One can only better the world on a macro scale if one can be aware and care for themselves and their community on a micro scale. At the same time, all change must come from the individual.

Do you know of any student, teacher, parent, or staff who always have an anecdote to tell, love to share some insights into their passions and interest, or simply is a Panther through and through? Nominate them to be featured in our Panthers of ISKL stories by sending in your submissions here.