14-4-2024 (SINGAPORE) Mark Lee, renowned for his comedic roles, has secured his first international acting award, winning the Best Actor accolade at the Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival (HIFF) for his performance in the local movie “Wonderland.”
After multiple nominations, the 55-year-old actor triumphed at the prestigious event, marking a significant milestone in his career. Lee expressed his gratitude in an Instagram post on Saturday night, sharing a video capturing the moment his name was announced during the awards ceremony.
Despite his absence, director Yee-Wei Chai accepted the award on his behalf, extending appreciation to the judges, the film’s director, producer, screenwriter, cast, and crew for their collective effort in bringing “Wonderland” to life.
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In “Wonderland,” set in 1980s Singapore, Lee portrays an illiterate father who makes sacrifices to send his daughter abroad for education. Alongside fellow veteran Peter Yu, who won the Best Supporting Actor award, the movie explores themes of sacrifice and deception in the face of tragedy.
Lee, reflecting on his win, revealed that he received the news unexpectedly during dinner, eliciting happiness and excitement. He highlighted the significance of his role, which diverged from his usual comedic repertoire, requiring meticulous preparation and dedication.
Similarly, Yu expressed surprise and elation at his Best Supporting Actor win, describing the moment as historic and symbolic of Singaporean talent gaining recognition on the international stage. Director Chai echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of showcasing Singaporean actors’ capabilities to global audiences.
