Michelle Yeoh, acclaimed for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, is set to appear in the short film Sandiwara, directed by Sean Baker. The film will have its world premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival on February 13, 2026, showcasing Yeoh in five distinct roles within a vibrant Malaysian setting.
Sandiwara is situated in a lively night market in Penang, Malaysia, where Yeoh portrays five separate characters, each with unique stories. The film explores Malaysian culture through its storytelling and cinematic style, moving beyond mere fashion into deeper cultural expression. The title, derived from the Malay word for drama or theatrical performance, reflects the film’s narrative structure.
Creative Techniques and Production Background
Shot entirely on an iPhone in Penang, the film marks Sean Baker’s return to his signature guerrilla filmmaking technique, previously showcased in projects like Tangerine and Snowbird. This approach lends an authentic and intimate feel to the film’s portrayal of everyday life.
Sandiwara was created in collaboration with the London-based fashion house Self-Portrait, as part of their Residency Program. This program supports artists from various disciplines by providing access to the brand’s resources and platforms. It encourages
from all disciplines into the brand to design using their own distinctive style
and offers
infrastructure, platforms, resources, teams and distribution network to spotlight and promote external creatives, offering them the freedom to dream and create.
Film Details and Festival Highlights
The short is approximately 30 minutes long, though the exact runtime will be confirmed at its Berlin screening. The premiere will include a post-screening discussion featuring both Sean Baker and Michelle Yeoh, allowing audiences insight into the creative process behind the film.
In addition to premiering Sandiwara, the Berlin International Film Festival will honor Michelle Yeoh with the prestigious Honorary Golden Bear for Lifetime Achievement, marking a significant milestone in her career. The festival itself runs from February 12 to 22, 2026.
Significance and Anticipated Impact of ‘Sandiwara’
Sandiwara represents a fusion of cinematic innovation and cultural tribute, highlighting Malaysian storytelling through Baker’s unique filmmaking style and Yeoh’s versatile performance. The film’s collaboration with a fashion house and its premiere at an internationally renowned festival position it to attract attention across both film and creative arts circles. Yeoh’s recognition with the Honorary Golden Bear further cements her influence in global cinema, promising that Sandiwara will be a noteworthy event in the 2026 festival season.
