‘Sandiwara’ Trailer – Michelle Yeoh Stars in Sean Baker’s Vibrant Short Film

Ahead of the world premiere at Berlinale, here is the official trailer for Sandiwara, a short film starring Michelle Yeoh from acclaimed director Sean Baker.

Set against the bustling backdrop of a Malaysian night market, Yeoh embodies five distinct characters, each telling a unique story that reflects facets of Malaysian culture that are rarely seen on screen.

Written, directed, edited, and shot by Baker, Sandiwara was filmed in Penang, Malaysia, with a focus on immersive, vibrant street-life visuals and expressive character work. Joining Yeoh in the film are Reuben Kang and Sunny Lau.

Sandiwara is set to world premiere at the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, along with a conversation with both Baker and Yeoh.

Here is the official synopsis of Sandiwara: Michelle Yeoh delivers a transformative performance amid Penang’s vibrant cityscape. In collaboration with Academy Award-winning director Sean Baker, this short film is a bold, immersive celebration of womanhood, cultural identity, culinary heritage, and the spirit of independent cinema.

Set in a Malaysian night market, Sandiwara follows five characters who each tell their own unique story and represent a facet of Malaysian culture rarely explored. The title itself comes from the Malay word meaning “drama,” “theatrical performance,” or “play.

Created as part of his residency at self-portrait, a fashion house in London, Sean Baker has spoken about the creative freedom and cultural celebration at the heart of Sandiwara. In discussing the project, Baker has said, “Sandiwara is an extension of my pre-existing love for independent cinema, and with the support of Han Chong, Michelle Yeoh, and the many other individuals who helped bring this vision to life, we were able to celebrate Malaysian culture in a big way,” said Baker. “It was incredible to get to experience Penang and to have been given the freedom to create a film that spans beyond traditional fashion and cinema integration.”

Watch the official trailer for Sandiwara above.