Veteran actress Joan Chen picked several feel-good films to be screened at the Singapore Sun Festival 2009. During a telephone interview, this evergreen beauty told The Jakarta Post what she was going to share in the upcoming Festival.
Question: How do you see movies affecting our daily lives?
Answer: Once in a while, movies make us feel enlightened, and our souls nurtured, and make us question how we can be better.
What is your definition of "a good life"?
We always wish for what we don't have. We feel content for one minute, but then we long for something else. And, this is not just about physical materials. Living well, I think, is living with a sense of purpose, and to make a difference in society in general.
For me, pleasure is not a big part of living well. Meaning is very important. I welcome pleasure, and I don't lack of it - shopping, good food, and so on. But, meaning is the most important thing.
What were your criteria in choosing Before Night Falls for screening at the Singapore Sun Festival 2009?
I always love Julian Schnabel. Before Night Falls is one of my all-time favorite movies, but actually I chose The Diving Bell and the Butterfly for the Festival.
What is keeping you busy these days?
I only allow myself to work for three months a year. The rest of the time I am a mother and wife.
Did you hear about terrorist attack in Jakarta a few months ago?
I did. That's the most dreadful thing. I don't know what to say. But, my heart goes out to the people that suffered, and I hope somehow that we, as artists, help to communicate these messages.
- Ve Handojo
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