Director: June Cheong

Year of Release: 2024

Genre: Education, Short film

Duration: 22mins

15-year-old Viola is desperate to belong in her new school that's full of privileged students. After constant bullying, she will do anything to fit in. But how far is too far?

The title itself, Viola Isn't Like Us already paints a picture of an outcast. It is a story about the price of fitting in and compromising your values. In the film, Viola is alienated from her peers due to differences in lifestyle. Everything from their clothes, their behavior and even the way they speak communicates high-class - a stark contrast to Viola who comes from a simple middle-class background. In order to please her peers, Viola goes as far as to shun her previous friendships. Eventually, the consequences of her actions catch up to her, and she is faced with the horrible realization, that her friends were never genuine in the first place.

There are several contrasting moments of sadness and happiness throughout the film. Scenes of happiness captured are very brief whereas sad parts are quite long, emphasizing the fleeting moments of joy Viola experiences with her peers before being replaced by harsh reality - the reality being Viola faking her entire personality to fit in.

Pearl Hoo Jia Qi delivers an outstanding performance, skillfully embodying the complexities of a conflicted teen. She capably navigates the delicate balance between youthful awkwardness and a subtle, maturity that reflects her character's upbringing. Hoo Jia Qi's layered portrayal brings depth to her role, capturing the vulnerability and inner turmoil of adolescence. It's a deeply authentic performance that resonates long after the film ends.

Overall, Viola Isn't Like Us, is a good educational tool about peer pressure, bullying, class differences, and toxic friendships.

Rating: ★★★★⯪ (4.5/5)