Academy Award winners Sean Baker and Michelle Yeoh are heading to the Berlin Film Festival for the world premiere of their new short film, Sandiwara.
The film marks a return to Baker’s iPhone filmmaking roots and stars Yeoh in a bold, multi-role performance. Sandiwara was created in collaboration with the London-based fashion label Self-Portrait and is being billed as “an immersive celebration of independent cinema.” The short will debut on Feb. 13.
Following the premiere, Baker and Yeoh will take part in a special onstage conversation about the project. The event will also include a screening of Everything Everywhere All At Once, the Oscar-winning film that earned Yeoh the Academy Award for Best Actress.
Sandiwara is the first film produced under Self-Portrait’s Residency program, which launched in 2025. Set in a bustling Malaysian night market, the short features Yeoh portraying five different characters, showcasing her range in a visually rich, experimental format.
The Berlin Film Festival will also honor Yeoh with the Honorary Golden Bear for Lifetime Achievement at its opening ceremony on Feb. 12. Baker will present the award himself.
Baker most recently made history with Anora, winning Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing.
The Berlin Film Festival runs from Feb. 12 through Feb. 22.