- Horror Shorts | Original Stories | Reality Shows OhSnapTV

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

‘Visitor’ was photographed and completed entirely by Aaron Chung in the confines of his home within 24 hours between 13th and 14th April 2020. On a quiet evening over Malaysia’s Covid-19 Movement Control Order period, a mysterious guest pays a visit. Watch it here

AARON CHUNG

Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Kuching, Sarawak. I studied filmmaking in Akademi Filem Malaysia (which has since closed down). I have worked as a cinematographer for the past 15 years. I am also a yoga teacher, writer and marathoner.

How did the idea and story of this film come about?

I had not made a short film in 10 years. When I saw the poster by Kuman Pictures, I felt very inspired to do this purely for some fun, satisfaction and as a challenge to myself.

I worked backwards to develop this idea, starting with the limitations that I had which were:

– Working completely solo

– Limited equipment

– Shoot within the confines of my house

I did not want to fail by attempting an idea or concept which would be beyond these production limitations. My greatest arsenal were elements which do not have to be photographed; editing and sound design. Finally, I came up with a simple story inspired by random sounds that we hear in the night.

What inspiration or references did you draw from in terms of other films, mediums, filming techniques?
I truly love the horror/thriller filmmaking style, notable ones being The Eye, The Maid, The Ring, Dark Water, Skeleton Key, Pet Sematary. Having watched a lot of films and shot a lot of projects, I was subconsciously drawing on every film style and devices I had ever watched or done which could work for this film.

What were some of the challenges you faced in getting this film made?
– ‘Wearing many hats!’ As a professional DP, I always have assistants and crew working with me, and I (together with the director) will guide the actors. This time, I had to do EVERYTHING from charging batteries until finally pressing ‘record’ and then going in to act.
– I have a lot of junk in my house, so I had to constantly shuffle a lot of things ‘ke sana ke sini’ just to have room to shoot.
– Finding ways to achieve practical special effects such as the door opening and light switching off.