Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysian biscuit brand Julie’s has launched its first-ever Deepavali short film, The Duel, a lighthearted yet emotional story that delves into the nuances of family dynamics during festive gatherings.
Set during a lively Deepavali open house, the short film depicts a generational clash between an outspoken aunt and a young woman navigating adulthood. Their conversation, centred on familiar topics like marriage, appearance, and lifestyle choices, unfolds as a stylised “cowboy duel,” transforming their verbal exchange into a cinematic showdown.
The tension shifts when a grandmother intervenes, revealing that beneath the surface of probing questions lies an authentic, if imperfect, expression of love.
Tzy Horng Sai, director of Julie’s Biscuits, said, “We are excited to present our first Deepavali short film, a thought-provoking project that speaks directly to the heart of what family means to us. Festive seasons often stir up family tensions from the past yet remind us that family can also unite us.”
They added, “The Duel explores these conflicting dynamics as opportunities to create deeper understanding. Our hope is that this short film will spark reflection and encourage viewers to see family interactions through kinder lenses and to embrace the different ways love is expressed across generations.”
The film was produced in collaboration with GOVT Singapore. Executive Creative Director Kevin Poh explained, “We wanted to tell a simple yet relatable story that most Malaysian Indians experience during their Deepavali house visits, where unspoken judgements from relatives surface. To bring these ‘silent’ judgements to life, we employed the metaphor of the good ol’ Western TV shoot-out to capture good festive fun, and to show how these old-fashioned and insensitive comments often stem from love and concern. The Duel hopes to remind us that we’re all still connected through tradition and love, even when we least expect it.”
The Duel is available for viewing on Julie’s official YouTube channel. To complement the festive mood, Julie’s is also highlighting its Butter Crackers, featured in the film, as a convenient and versatile treat for gifting or snacking during the celebrations.
