Singapore’s ‘Oversteer’ Races to Victory, Winning Top Feature Film and Director Awards at Vienna Independent Film Festival

Singaporean car-racing drama “Oversteer” has triumphed at the 2025 Vienna Independent Film Festival (VIFF), clinching the prestigious awards for Best Feature Film and Best Director. The festival, which ran from September 15 to 17, recognized director Derrick Lui for his compelling cinematic achievement, marking a significant milestone for the ambitious film.

A Decade of Dedication and Overcoming Odds

The journey for “Oversteer” was a marathon, spanning a full decade from its initial conception to its final completion. Director Derrick Lui, who accepted the accolades in person in Vienna, expressed immense gratitude and excitement. “Oversteer took a full decade from conception to completion. This isn’t just Best Feature Film – it’s also my first Best Director award,” Lui stated, highlighting the arduous yet rewarding path to bringing his vision to the screen. The film’s production was fraught with challenges, including severe funding shortages and a complex development process that endured delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability in Myanmar. Lui himself self-financed the production after losing major funding, demonstrating a deep commitment to the project. Despite these hurdles, the film’s principal photography was completed in a remarkably efficient 14 days in early 2020.

Jury’s Acclaim: A Masterful Blend of Genres

The international jury at VIFF specifically lauded Derrick Lui’s directorial prowess, praising his “masterful blend of a tight plot, heartfelt family drama and the adrenaline of racing.” This recognition underscores “Oversteer’s” ability to resonate with audiences and critics alike by skillfully merging high-octane action with profound emotional narratives. The film centers on Wind, portrayed by Aden Tan, a young man who sacrifices everything to pursue his passion for car racing. The ensemble cast also features notable performances from Zhang Yaodong, Jannassa Neo, Grace Teo, and Hanrey Low.

Authenticity on the Track

A key element that impressed the jury and audiences was the film’s commitment to authenticity. “Oversteer” was shot using professional drivers and real cars, lending a visceral and genuine feel to its racing sequences. This approach not only showcased breathtaking speed and skillful maneuvers but also enhanced the emotional stakes of Wind’s journey as he navigates financial struggles and personal challenges within the racing community. The film’s narrative explores universal themes of perseverance, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams, offering inspiring stories.

Director’s Vision and International Resonance

Lui noted that the enthusiastic reception from international audiences during the Vienna screenings affirmed the film’s power to transcend language and cultural barriers. “Oversteer,” which features dialogue in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English, resonated deeply, proving that compelling human stories and the universal thrill of racing can connect globally. The director, an ex-racer himself, drew upon personal interests to infuse the film with authentic car culture. This international award is a significant achievement for the film and for Singaporean independent cinema, highlighting the growing global recognition of its diverse entertainment landscape.

A New Chapter for Independent Cinema

The “Oversteer” win at the Vienna Independent Film Festival is more than just an accolade; it’s a testament to independent filmmaking’s ability to thrive against adversity. The film’s success at VIFF, alongside other selections and mentions at festivals like the Urban Action Showcase in New York, Dili International Film Festival, and Flight Deck Film Festival, cements its place as a noteworthy piece of international cinema. It offers hope and motivation to other filmmakers embarking on challenging, passion-driven projects, proving that talent and a unique artistic vision can achieve top-tier recognition.