ABOUT
A contemporary horror feature film set in Hong Kong, THE HELLPER is a story of vengeance, as a young Filipino maid takes work with an ex-pat family to exact supernatural revenge for the death of her sister.
Inspired by creepy chiller films both East and West of such classics as Ringu, Ju-On and Insidious, and drawing on our teams diverse experience in film and short form horror, The Hellper will be our first foray into a full length feature film, and the most ambitious film we've made to date.
THE STORY
After a new addition to their household, an ex-pat family in Hong Kong employs a foreign domestic worker from the Philippines to help them in the house. However unbeknownst to the family, their new helper already has a dark and sinister connection with them, and brings an evil presence into their home.
We follow the story of Sarah, wife and mother to the family, as she struggles with ex-pat life in Hong Kong, and battles the supernatural entity that has invaded their home. And, with the help of a wise yet drunken spiritual master Mr. Chan, and her local best friend Lily, she painfully unravels the true secrets behind her marriage, and a dark story of vengeance from beyond the grave.
THE CAST
SARAH
A maladjusted, Western tai-tai, who is both victim and persecutor when an evil threatens her already fragile family life. A vengeful anti-heroine at her core.
MICHAEL
Sarah’s husband. A smooth talking philanderer disguised as a banker. Yet another entitled ex-pat with a bitter edge and a lustful eye.
ISA
A Filipino domestic helper to the Cross family. Her innocently meek demeanour and frail physique hides a gritty determination for a gruesome revenge
Miles Sible is a Filipino actor performer and, from the age of seven, has appeared in several television dramas, advertisements, and musical theatre productions in the Philippines and Hong Kong. Her debut in the film industry was as a domestic helper for Freshwave Short Film, "Ateh". Miles will also lead in another independent feature film that is set to be released next year.
Through acting, her goal is to inspire and entertain all kinds of audiences, bringing Asian representation in the big screen.
ROSA
The ghost, apparition, vengeful spirit, and general do-er of evil deeds and all things horrible.
Filipina Hong Konger Carla Acepcion brings her zest, enthusiasm and energetic personality to the role of scorned and vengeful Rosa. Carla is usually found behind the scenes of productions, live events and music festivals such as The Big Picnic HK and Hong Kong City Chamber Orchestra performances. Having worked as part of the Theatre Department at an international school for the past 6 years, she enjoys sharing her love of performing arts with her students.
Carla is passionate, motivated and excited about developing the representation of South East Asians and their culture in media.
LILY
Level-headed Hong Konger who blends the best of East and West. Friend to Sarah and wise to Michael's games.
Actor and Voiceover artist, in theatre and film, Shafin Azim has played roles such as Cinderella and Princess Jasmine, and has voiced commercials for clients including Toys R Us, Haschel Toys, American Tourister, and the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Shafin is always eager to collaborate and create projects, and to elevate new artists and open more doors for South Asians, both in Hong Kong and internationally.
MARCIA
The young precocious daughter of a Western ex-pat couple. Initially energetic and joyful, she becomes quiet and withdrawn, as strange occurrences plague the family and their home.
THE CREW
Simon G.M. Li - Writer, Director & Producer
Simon is an award winning producer director with over 20 years’ experience in film and television production.
With a degree in engineering, he started in the industry as a special effects designer creating pyrotechnic and mechanical effects for film and television. Further study included a Masters in Film and Television Production from Bristol University, and specialist training with the BBC in creative directing, directing drama, directing actors and a wide range of production skills.
With credits on a huge variety of projects, from feature length drama and documentary, through to micro budget short films and fully funded on-air ads & promos, previous roles have included director and creative with the BBC, director producer at Al Jazeera, and channel director at ITV.
When Simon is not filming, he can usually be found playing the sax or hiding under the sofa from monsters.
John Curran - Director of Photography
John Curran is a director and director of photography with 25 years’ experience working in tv and media production. His work has ranged from lighting cameraman on BAFTA award winning content to senior studio director, director of photography, lighting director and multi-skilled shooting director for BBC, Channel 4, Thomson Reuters and CNN, among others.
John's experience has encompassed drama, interactive content, feature film, documentary, news and large special effects productions. With each production he aims to bring his creativity, experience and enthusiasm to the team and the final creative endeavour.
John can now be found in Hong Kong where he will be working on productions, lecturing or, with camera in hand, walking around the city and its surroundings to capture the images this magical place brings to life.
Holman Siu - Art Director
Holman is an experienced set designer, specialising in Halloween and horror theme events for many companies, including Hong Kong's premier theme park. Holman is excited to be bringing Hong Kong's darker side to the big screen
Lucinda MacDonald - Special Effects Make-Up Supervisor
Recent graduate Lucinda continues to master her craft in special effects make-up for media and events. An avid cos-player, she is an expert in bringing film and TV characters to life in innovative and exciting ways
And just for funsies...
Here is the original short test film we made back in the day that started this entire process off. We hope you like!
IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION,
GET IN TOUCH: FILM@SLICCTV.COM