5 Jul – In its fourth running since its inauguration in 2019, Taylor's University Film Festival (TUFF) 2024 concluded on 3 July; having provided a platform to encourage film and media students as well as aspiring and emerging filmmakers to showcase their filmmaking artistry. Organised by academics and students from the School of Media and Communication (SOMAC), the month-long festival held several film screenings, collaborative workshops, forums and an awards night for individuals who are interested to pursue their passion in the film industry. These initiatives were made possible through collaborative industry partnerships and the support from the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), ACE Pictures and RED Communications who provided real-world insights and strategies for overcoming obstacles in film production. TUFF 2024 saw an increase in the number of film submissions from young filmmakers searching for a platform to make their debut as producers and directors. There was a total of 113 film submissions coming from both within Malaysia and globally that included Indonesia, Taiwan, South Korea, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
A total of 11 film nominations, which included a short film from a Taylor's University student, were selected to the Film Showcase event that took place at Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC). GSC also hosted a special screening featuring the finest Impact Lab themed short documentaries from Taylor's University's Bachelor of Mass Communication (Honours) in Digital Media Production students. Starting last year, TUFF has been recognising several student-produced documentary films that are aligned with the Liveable Urban Communities Impact Lab, a transdisciplinary ecosystem with the vision to highlight and improve the quality of life of urban communities and create liveable, vibrant urban places in Malaysia. GSC also hosted a special screening featuring the finest Impact Lab themed short documentaries from Taylor's University's undergraduates.
TUFF culminated with an award ceremony that was held at The Grand Hall, Taylor's University. A total of 14 awards in various categories were presented to local and international winners. Among them included the introduction of new awards such as Audience Choice Award, Best Urban Community Documentary, and Jury Honourable Mention. The awards were presented by special guests of the night which included Dato Kamil Othman (Chairman of FINAS), Professor Hassan Muthalib (Father of Malaysian Animation), Lina Tan (RED Communications) and Pan Vui Shang (Head of Operations of GSC)