Gone Are The Moat And The Walls – short film

The City God calls upon you

After 20 years being away from home, Zhang returns to Singapore to address his dreams from the City God. He returns to 2 of his puppet troupe members' deaths and the disappearance of the troupe leader, Wong. His search leads him to visit the places of his past following his troupe’s disbandment. When he finally finds where Wong is, he is confronted by the City God.

The Industrialisation of Culture

This film depicts the reality of puppetry in Singapore. The decline began following the “Speak Mandarin Campaign” as more of the youth began to lose touch with their dialects. Traditionally performed in Chinese dialects such as Hokkien and Cantonese, many types of puppetry are performed in Singapore for the Gods of the temples. However, due to rapid industrialisation, it is unfortunate that this art form is being diluted and will disappear in the near future.

The Gods are alive

The lore of the City God comes from China named, Chenghuangshen. It directly translates to “city wall”, “moat” and “god”. They worship a deity named the City God who is believed to protect the city and the affairs of the people. These City Gods are also believed to be deceased souls of officials who were in charge of their villages whether in imperial times or in the present. Many of the believers would seek the guidance of the City God when the city is in turmoil - for instance, protection from natural disasters.

Despite the worship of these City Gods, they can also be punished for not being able to carry out their duties. Some of the punishments that may be given are having their bodies be in the burning sun or being beaten up by the governor or magistrate.

Gone are the Moat and the Walls

Through this film, we hope to bring light to the dying tradition of puppetry in Singapore. As our economy prosper, there is no contention that our culture has been diluted with the influence of globalisation. It is up to us whether we want to continue the culture or at least preserve its memories and the legacies left behind by those who practice it.

WHO ARE WE?

We are final year BA(Hons) Film students from Lasalle College of the Arts. Gone Are The Moat and The Walls is our thesis film project that is in the midst of production. We have started work since Mid-June and we will be approaching the crunch time of the production soon! This film will contribute to our overall credits for graduation in 2021.

THE PRODUCTION - Where will your funds go?

The film is fully funded by the student crew members and the school. We already have the equipment and manpower from our peers and the school. We are inviting you to be part to our journey of elevating our film from good to great. We believe in 100% transparency to where your funds will go.

These funds will be financing a film shoot of seven days with over 20 cast and crew members. The duration of the project from script to premiere will be approximately 9 months (Sept 2020 to May 2021).

Here is a breakdown:

Cast 25%, Art 25%, Location 20%, Transport 15%, Food & Craft Services 15%

BE PART OF THE JOURNEY

Your support is greatly appreciated! Thank you for your contribution to our growth as young filmmakers. You will also be contributing to the history of Singapore and the legacy that is left behind in the art of puppetry.

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

Contribute to this Indiegogo campaign! Every little bit counts. If you are unable to contribute through the campaign or would like to contribute in other ways, simply email us at [email protected] and we can figure out any alternatives.

Also, you can tag us and share our film on your social media sites! Follow us on Instagram @themoatstory for updates on the film!

#themoatstory