The documentary Project 1000 Believe is a 64-minute work directed by Natalie Dau and Joan Leong. It is a sporting account that follows an extreme running feat, offering a close look at physical endurance, determination and human bonds.
The film focuses on the challenge undertaken by athlete and protagonist Natalie Dau, who runs 1,000 km in 12 days across Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore with the aim of setting a Guinness World Record. The documentary explores the context of ultramarathon running, showing both the running stages and interactions with local communities.
Besides Dau, the film features Arthur Tong, Joan Leong, Jaems Chua, Ian Park, Elizabeth Hildebrand, Mook Karoonyavanich and Herlin Ho, who contribute to the narrative both as participants and behind the scenes, handling cinematography, editing and sound.
The film's main message celebrates the strength of the human spirit, the ability to overcome extreme challenges and the importance of connections between people. It is an ode to unity and resilience, conveyed through dynamic images and moments of introspection.
In production terms, Project 1000 Believe is Natalie Dau and Joan Leong's first directing work, with a USD 50,000 budget. It is not a student project but an independent initiative developed and produced professionally.
The documentary was completed on 29 November 2024 and has Singapore as its principal distribution country. Filming took place mainly in Malaysia, in digital format with a 16:9 colour visual presentation.
Film Information
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Title: Project 1000 Believe
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Original title: Project 1000 Believe
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Direction: Natalie Dau, Joan Leong
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Production: Natalie Dau
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Country: Singapore
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Language: English
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Running time: 64 minutes
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Genre: Documentary
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Sport featured: Ultramarathon
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Main subject(s): Natalie Dau, Arthur Tong, Joan Leong, Jaems Chua, Ian Park, Elizabeth Hildebrand, Mook Karoonyavanich
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Completion date: 29 November 2024
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Premiere: [Not specified]
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Distributor: [Not specified]
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Shooting format: Digital, 16:9, colour
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Director's first film: Yes
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Student project: No