Anthony Chen is a distinguished Singaporean film director, screenwriter, and producer, celebrated for his impactful contributions to cinema. His career took off with the short film “Ah Ma” in 2007, which made history as the first Singaporean film to win an award at the Cannes Film Festival. This early success set the stage for his debut feature film, “Ilo Ilo” (2013), which garnered the prestigious Camera d’Or at Cannes, making Chen the first Singaporean to achieve this honor. The film’s acclaim continued as it won over 40 international awards, including four Golden Horse Awards, solidifying Chen’s reputation as a leading figure in the film industry.

Following the success of “Ilo Ilo,” Chen directed his second feature film, “Wet Season” (2019), which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was nominated for the Platform Prize. Both films were selected as Singapore’s official submissions for the Academy Awards, showcasing Chen’s ability to resonate with global audiences. His short film “The Break Away” was featured in the anthology “The Year of the Everlasting Storm,” which premiered at Cannes in 2021, further demonstrating his versatility and creativity.

In 2022, Chen expanded his repertoire with the completion of his first Chinese-language film, “The Breaking Ice,” which premiered at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival. His English-language debut, “Drift,” starring Cynthia Erivo, premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, marking a significant milestone in his career. Chen’s work continues to push boundaries, as he is set to direct “Secret Daughter,” featuring Priyanka Chopra Jonas.

As a co-founder of Giraffe Pictures, Chen has also produced notable films, including “Pop Aye” and “Ajoomma,” which have received critical acclaim at international festivals. His contributions to cinema have not only elevated Singapore’s film industry but have also inspired a new generation of filmmakers, making him a pivotal figure in contemporary cinema.