Sean Baker, the acclaimed filmmaker who recently achieved remarkable recognition at the Oscars, has wrapped production on his latest work, the Sean Baker new film Sandiwara, featuring Michelle Yeoh. Set to premiere in early 2026, the short film was created for the fashion label Self-Portrait and explores the vibrant setting of Penang, Malaysia, as it follows Yeoh’s character through local life and culture.
Michelle Yeoh Stars in Cinematic Exploration of Malaysian Identity
Sandiwara was written, shot, and edited by Baker, with Michelle Yeoh at the center of its narrative. The film is framed as an immersive experience, with Yeoh journeying through Penang’s dynamic scenes, focusing on themes of womanhood and cultural roots. Described as an
“immersive celebration of womanhood, cultural identity, culinary heritage and the spirit of independent cinema,”
the project aims to shine a spotlight on Malaysia’s unique traditions and the power of personal storytelling.
Collaboration Between Filmmaking and Fashion
The film was developed through Self-Portrait’s creative residency, an initiative by the brand’s founder Han Chong. This residency encourages collaboration across artistic disciplines, drawing filmmakers, like Sean Baker, and prominent figures such as Michelle Yeoh, into its orbit. By partnering with creatives from various backgrounds, Self-Portrait continues to enrich its content and challenge artistic norms.
Baker shared his motivation for the new project, stating,
“Sandiwara’ is an extension of my pre-existing love for independent cinema, and with the support of Han Chong, Michelle Yeoh, and the many other individuals who helped bring this vision to life, we were able to celebrate Malaysian culture in a big way,”
said Baker.
“It was incredible to get to experience Penang and to have been given the freedom to create a film that spans beyond traditional fashion and cinema integration.”
— Sean Baker, Filmmaker
Han Chong praised the film’s approach as well, noting,
“challenge to the traditional ways film and fashion have learned to work together. Seeing Sean and his team immerse themselves in the heart of my hometown of Penang — absorbing the textures, rituals, and everyday moments of Malay culture — reminded me why we started residency in the first place.”
— Han Chong, Founder, Self-Portrait
Context for Baker and Yeoh’s Recent Successes
Sandiwara comes at a high point in both Baker and Yeoh’s careers. Sean Baker’s film Anora recently swept the Oscars with five awards, including Best Director and Best Picture. Michelle Yeoh remains a leading figure in cinema, currently featuring in the blockbuster sequel Wicked: For Good. Their partnership in Sandiwara aligns celebrated talent with a project aimed at cultural and artistic celebration in Malaysia.
Anticipation for the Premiere and Cultural Impact
With its focus on Malaysian culture, independent cinema, and the intersection of film and fashion, Sandiwara is positioned as a promising artistic endeavor. The involvement of Sean Baker, Michelle Yeoh, and Han Chong sets the stage for a film likely to resonate with international audiences when it premieres in 2026. The collaboration is expected to inspire future projects that blend creative disciplines while celebrating unique local stories.
