by FilmInk Staff
At an age when most children are just beginning to dive into their first chapter books, six-year-old Alexis Truong is already making history in the cinematic world. Her debut short film, The Bumper Car in Shanghai, has earned her a spot in the SF3 Kids category at the SmartFone Flick Festival (SF3), marking a milestone as the youngest filmmaker in the festival’s 10-year history.
Inspired by a family holiday in Shanghai, Alexis’ film captures the thrill of her first-ever bumper car ride, a moment that left a lasting impression on the young storyteller. What makes her achievement even more remarkable is that Alexis was only five years old when she took on the challenge of turning this experience into a short film. With nothing but her father’s iPhone 12 Pro and her boundless imagination, she directed, starred in, and edited the entire project herself using the InShot app.
Alexis’ father, Tez Vi Truong (aka Tez Frost), is no stranger to the world of independent filmmaking. As a Guinness World Record-breaking director, Tez has always been a source of inspiration and encouragement for his daughter. With his influence, she embraced the creative process and proved that age is no barrier when it comes to telling great stories.
“She didn’t get into the finals of a previous competition, but we encouraged her to keep her hopes up. Now she’s got the chance to showcase her talent at SF3,” says Tez.
Alexis’ journey from a day at an amusement park to being featured in an international film festival is a testament to the power of perseverance, imagination, and family support. Her debut film isn’t just a charming recollection of a childhood event; it’s a heartwarming reminder of what can be achieved when passion is nurtured, even at such a young age.
The SF3 Kids Screening and Awards Ceremony will be a red-carpet event held on Sunday, 17th November, at The Palace Chauvel Cinema in Paddington, Sydney. For more information, head to the website.
