“Circus of Life” to warm hearts this Mother’s Day, opening nationwide on May 7

Tom Phan delivers a powerful debut performance with an intense one-take hysterical scene in a movie that has been winning rave international reviews.

The Malaysian film “Circus of Life”, directed by Tham Wai Fook, is set to hit cinemas nationwide on 7 May 2026 in conjunction with Mother’s Day. The film features a cast of predominantly non-professional actors, including Tom Phan, Faye An Ying Fei, Lai Thiam Tai, and Khok Eng Loy. 

Making his big-screen debut, Tom Phan portrays a young man who gradually spirals out of control after failing to cope with harsh realities and shattered dreams. Despite being a newcomer, his intense and emotionally charged performance has left a strong impression. To prepare for the role, he worked closely with the director and observed real-life mental health conditions to better understand the character.

Speaking about a particularly demanding hysterical scene with Faye An, Tom revealed that it was filmed in a single continuous take. “It was extremely stressful, but somehow during rehearsal, the emotions came naturally, and the director decided to keep that take,” he said.

“Circus of Life” tells the story of Wei, who dreams of building his own animal circus. However, repeated setbacks push him toward mental instability, leading him to claim that he has been abducted by aliens. As his condition deteriorates, he and his girlfriend drift between reality and illusion, moving through psychiatric hospitals, kindergartens, and nursing homes. Meanwhile, his mother embarks on a journey to reconnect with his former circus companions in hopes of bringing him back to reality. 

Reflecting on how he was cast, Tom shared that it was all about “fate,” as both he and the director are from Taiping. Interestingly, ten years before the film, Faye had filmed at his school, and a decade later, they reunited on screen as a couple with a ten-year relationship.

One of the most challenging scenes, set in a nursing home, required both actors to deliver a highly emotional breakdown. Surprisingly, it was completed swiftly during rehearsal. “I thought it would be the hardest scene, but it ended up being the fastest,” Tom joked. In contrast, a simple scene of handing a glass of water to his on-screen mother took 18 takes.

Tom also revealed that he portrayed multiple states and roles in the film, from a normal young man to someone mentally unstable, and even took on roles as a father, husband, and son.

Meanwhile, Lai Thiam Tai, who plays the mother, received praise for her natural acting. She shared that her favourite scene was when her son teaches her how to write, which reminded her of her late mother. “I hope audiences will not leave with regrets — bring your parents to watch this film,” she said.

Director Tham Wai Fook described “Circus of Life” as a film about “human emotional connection,” moving from chaos to calm, and from obsession to letting go. At its core, the film conveys the power of maternal love and companionship.

When asked what he hopes audiences will take away, he replied, “A peaceful heart.” He believes the film encourages reflection on the people and relationships around us, including family bonds and harmony in a multicultural society. 

The film’s premiere at TGV KLCC drew a full house, attended by cast members, friends, and notable figures from the arts and media industry, including Megat Sharizal, Akmal Hamzah, Rosie Rashid, Abang Crime, as well as several FINAS board members.

Adding to the significance of the evening, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Communications YB Teo Nie Ching and Datuk Azmir Saifuddin (CEO of FINAS) were present to show their support. They not only watched the film attentively but also engaged with the filmmakers and offered words of encouragement.

During the red carpet segment, carnations were distributed to loved ones as a gesture of appreciation, reinforcing the film’s central theme of love and gratitude.

“Circus of Life” has also been nominated for the NETPAC Award at the Barcelona Asian Film Festival, gaining recognition from international critics and showcasing the artistic potential of Malaysian cinema. 

“Circus of Life” will be released nationwide on 7 May 2026. Audiences are invited to step into this heartfelt yet whimsical “circus of life,” and rediscover the meaning of love and companionship through laughter and tears.

The film is produced by Four Hand Pictures, supported by the Digital Content Fund (DKD) from the Ministry of Communications through FINAS, distributed by Mega Films Distribution, with eight WiXian as media partner and thyseed as sponsor.