Kuala Lumpur, 27 April 2026 — The Malaysian film Circus of Life, written and directed by Tham Wai Fook, is set for nationwide release on 7 May 2026 in conjunction with Mother’s Day. Featuring a cast of largely first-time actors, the film stars Tom Phan, Faye An Ying Fei, Lai Thiam Tai, and Khok Eng Loy.
Marking his big-screen debut, Tom Phan takes on the challenging role of a young man who gradually spirals into emotional and mental instability after being unable to cope with harsh realities and shattered dreams. Despite being a newcomer, his raw and explosive performance has drawn strong praise. To prepare, he worked closely with the director and observed real-life mental health behaviours to better internalise the role.
Speaking about one of the film’s most intense moments — a hysterical confrontation with Faye An — Tom revealed that the scene was executed in a single continuous take.
“It was incredibly stressful. I thought it would be the hardest scene, but during rehearsal, the emotions just clicked — and the director decided to keep that take,” he shared.
A Story Between Reality and Illusion
Circus of Life follows Wei, a man determined to build his own animal circus. However, repeated setbacks push him toward instability, leading him to believe he has been abducted by aliens. As his condition worsens, he and his girlfriend drift between reality and illusion, navigating spaces such as psychiatric institutions, kindergartens, and nursing homes.
Meanwhile, his mother embarks on a journey to reconnect with his former circus companions, hoping to bring him back to reality.
Reflecting on how he landed the role, Tom described it as “fate” — both he and the director hail from Taiping. Coincidentally, Faye had filmed at his school a decade ago, and ten years later, they reunite on screen as a long-time couple.
From Breakdown to Breakthrough
Tom revealed that the role required him to portray multiple emotional and psychological states — from stability to breakdown — as well as shifting between different life roles including a son, husband, and father.
Ironically, while the emotionally intense scenes were completed swiftly, a simple moment of handing a glass of water to his on-screen mother took 18 takes.
Natural Performances and Emotional Core
Lai Thiam Tai, who plays the mother, received praise for her natural performance. She shared that her favourite scene — where her son teaches her how to write — reminded her of her late mother.
“I hope audiences won’t leave with regrets. Bring your parents to watch this film,” she said.
Director Tham Wai Fook described the film as a story about “human emotional connection” — a journey from chaos to calm, and from obsession to acceptance. At its heart, the film explores the enduring power of maternal love and companionship.
When asked what he hopes audiences will take away, he replied:
“A peaceful heart.”
Strong Industry Support at Premiere
The film’s premiere at TGV KLCC drew a full house, with attendance from cast, crew, and notable figures from the arts and media industry, including Megat Sharizal, Akmal Hamzah, Rosie Rashid, and Abang Crime, alongside several FINAS board members.
Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Communications YB Teo Nie Ching and FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin were also present, showing strong support for the production. Both stayed throughout the screening and engaged with the filmmakers afterward.
During the red carpet session, carnations were distributed to loved ones — a symbolic gesture reinforcing the film’s core message of love and appreciation.
International Recognition
Circus of Life has also been nominated for the NETPAC Award at the Barcelona Asian Film Festival, earning recognition from international critics and highlighting the artistic potential of Malaysian cinema.
Circus of Life opens nationwide on 7 May 2026. Audiences are invited to step into this whimsical yet heartfelt “circus of life,” and rediscover the meaning of love and companionship through laughter and tears.
