Apprentice

A young Malay man in Singapore, struggling with a criminal past, becomes drawn into the world of mandatory conscription. He finds himself unexpectedly becoming an apprentice to a cruel and charismatic chief executioner within the prison system. As he navigates this dark environment, he grapples with his own morality and the choices he must make.

Apprentice received critical acclaim for its taut direction, compelling performances, and its sensitive exploration of capital punishment and its psychological toll. It was praised for its ability to generate suspense and provoke thought without resorting to sensationalism, offering a nuanced look at a controversial subject.

• Praised for its suspenseful and character-driven narrative.

• Lauded for its sensitive and thought-provoking examination of capital punishment.

• The film's minimalist approach and strong performances were highlighted as key strengths.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's ability to create tension and its deep dive into the psychological aspects of the executioner's role. Many found the performances compelling and the subject matter engaging, even if disturbing.

Screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival. Won Best Film at the 2017 Singapore International Film Festival.

The film's director, Boo Junfeng, drew inspiration from real-life accounts and research into the practice of capital punishment in Singapore, aiming to humanize the individuals involved on both sides of the execution process.