A local film exploring the impact of Singapore’s justice system on personal lives, due to be screened at the upcoming 35th Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), has been “refused for classification” by the Infocomm Media Development Authority ( IMDA).

IMDA’s decision essentially means that the film, Small Hours Of The Night, by Singaporean director Daniel Hui, has been withdrawn from the festival and cannot be screened publicly.

In a statement, the IMDA said: “In consultation with the Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Attorney General, the IMDA considered that the content of the film was potentially contrary to the law, i.e. illegal. interests to approve it for screening.

“Under the film classification guidelines, ‘any material which harms or is likely to harm public order, or is likely to harm the national interest’ will be refused classification.”

In response to the IMDA decision, SGIFF Program Director Thong Kay Wee published a statement on the festival’s Instagram page to reiterate his support for the film’s award-winning director, Daniel Hui.

The statement read: “While the film cannot be screened, we will continue to provide its creators with a platform for their voices to be heard; Daniel will continue to participate in several other events under the auspices of SGIFF as a speaker.

The film is in official selection under the “Undercurrent” sectionwhich is the festival’s selection of innovative and experimental films, while Hhe will also be present as a panelist at the festival, contributing to discussions on creative processes and local filmmaking.

SGIFF will take place from November 28 to December 8.