A FILMMAKER'S DREAM COME TRUE

Augustman's Men of the Year alumni Jared Lee shares about his award-winning manga story The Horologist, which has since been turned into an animated feature film and gained international recognition

- ALISON LOH

WHEN IT COMES TO passion and perseverance, Jared Lee is one who embodies those qualities with rigour. From starting his journey as a YouTuber to building his very own production house called Grim Film, Lee has constantly demonstrated his genius in his own way.

But it was in 2018 that Lee's life would take a frightening turn, and that was when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. Despite his diagnosis, he didn't stop doing what he loved most, which was filmmaking.

Grim Film would go on producing exceptional short films that same year including The Last 7, which received global nominations and awards for its compelling storytelling. Lee's path in film would eventually expand when he decided to release his first ever manga called The Horologist at Comic Fiesta late last year. And to his surprise, his manga was sold out within a month.

It's not a common path where a filmmaker would delve into manga, but Lee's passion in comics led him to do exactly that. And that has since opened new doors for him. In the past few months, Lee has been representing Malaysia's film industry at prominent festivals including the Cannes Film Festival and Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

And his most recent showing was at Comic Con in San Diego, California, where The Horologist made history by becoming the first Malaysian animation to win Best Animation.

How does it feel to be the first Malaysian to win Best Animation at Comic Con?

It's been surreal, and if anything, I'm thankful for everyone who has been part of the project. I also hope after this, I will be able to get better support to make my next few ideas.

Can you share a little summary of The Horologist for our readers?