part one: synopsis

When a Korean father's desperate lie further strains his relationship with his daughter, the truth will either mend their bond or destroy it.

Minchul, a single Korean father, only wants his daughter Jisoo to have a successful life, pushing aside his own struggles. Day in and day out, he hides his exhaustion behind a facade, until Jisoo discovers the truth and their relationship reaches a breaking point. However, through a shared moment in the kitchen they begin to mend their bond. As they sit down to dinner together, their unspoken gratitude signals a newfound understanding and connection.

'Thank You for the Meal', written and directed by Chris Choi, is a film is about cultural disparity and what it means to hold onto your ethnic culture in another country. As a Korean-Australian himself, Chris has noticed that there is little representation of Korean-Australian stories in the media and wanted to create a film for others like him. 'Thank You for the Meal' aims to reach and touch the hearts of Asian immigrant families by exploring the strengths and weaknesses of traditional Asian parenthood and providing hope for reconcile between immigrant generations.

Inspired by films such as 'Perfect Days' (2023), 'Minari' (2020) and 'Past Lives' (2023).

part two: the crew

We are currently forming an incredible crew to bring TYFTM to life. The HODs are all current Deakin University film students from a range of Asian-Australian backgrounds. Each was drawn into the story and heart of TYFTM because of how it related to their own experiences as Asian diaspora in Australia, especially the delicious home-cooked meals of their culture.

Chris Choi | he/him | Korean-Australian

Writer & Director

Due to initial disconnectedness and contant comparisions with his peers, Chris felt ashamed of his Korean side. In order to translate words for his friends, he decided to study Korean language, and then eventually developed a curiosity and appreciation for the culture. 

Chris is escatic every time his mum cooks him Galbi Jim, a braised beef rib stew, and highly recommends it.

Katie Lee Kavanagh | she/her | Chinese-Australian

Producer & 1st AD

As a fifth-generation Chinese-Australian, Katie initially felt out-of-place among her peers. She looked Chinese and recieved red envelopes for New Year's, but neither her or her dad knew an ounce of Mandarin. Now she has grown to embrace her individuality and appreicates the growing diverse array of cultures in Australia.

Katie is a sucker for Fried Rice with Crumbed Chicken, especially if it her nanna makes it.

Akash Phogat | he/him | Indian

DOP

Akash will be working as the Director of Photography. He is an international student from India who came to Australia just before the lockdown hit. 

One of the things he cherishes most is the Aloo Paratha hismother used to make for him, which always reminds him of home and the warmth of family gatherings. 

Zheng (Henry) Chen | he/him | Chinese

Sound Designer

Zheng Chen is from southeastern China. He has had long-term exposure to traditional Chinese music and has developed a good understanding of it. During his time in Australia, he hopes to learn Western music and explore the fusion of different musical styles. He has a deep love for Chinese culture, especially its food. 

He believes that most problems can be solved with a good Chinese meal, and if not, then with two. He recommends Lanzhou Beef Noodle!

James Yoo | he/him | Korean

Editor, Production Assistant & Script Supervisor

As the only native Korean in the crew for this film, James strives to enhance authenticity of the Korean cultural and linguistic aspects depicted. By infusing the atmosphere of a Korean household into the frames of the film, James hopes to convey the warmth and essence of Korean family life.

Drawing from his years living in Korea, he vividly remembers the Kimbap his parents packed for picnics—a simple dish that symbolized their love.

Liesl Patton | she/her | Korean-Australian

Production Designer

Her whole life Liesl felt really disconnected to her Korean culture while living in Australia. These last 2 years she started studying and being more open with her Korean culture instead of being embarrassed of it. She now loves sharing her culture and learning with people.
She is really grateful for Bulgoggi that her mum makes her at home.

Avril Rossi | she/her | Indonesian

Production Designer

Studying in Australia has had its ups and downs for Avril, especially being away from home and her loved ones. But thanks to the supportive friends and community she’s found along the way, her study abroad experience has become so much more enjoyable! 

Whenever she’s missing home, she loves whipping up her grandma’s Steamed Egg recipe—the perfect dish that brings back the cozy feeling of family meals together!

part three: the cast

Danny Park | he/him | Korean-Australian

Minchul
Due to having a natural herd mentality, Danny had an identity crisis in both Australia and Korea as he grew up overseas moving a lot. However, once Danny learned to focus not on being the minority but the niche, and not hiding behind the difference but embracing the uniqueness, Danny found himself playing a bigger role in both societies connecting the two countries.
For a dish of Spicy Stir-fried Pork paired with fried egg and hwayo, Danny will do almost anything (salivating as we speak).

Joanna Danielle | she/her | Chinese-Indonesian

Jisoo

Having arrived in Australia a few years ago, Joanna found it exciting yet challenging to start afresh in a foreign land all on her own. She struggled with an identity crisis for not completely belonging here, and yet the longer she stayed, she became too “Australian” for her own people. Thankfully, with the help of all the amazing people she met along the way, she slowly finds comfort in just being herself and can now call this place home.
Joanna almost can’t live without rice, maybe it’s the asian genes in her, but a cup of Steamed Hot Rice served with whatever (as long as it’s not spicy) will keep her happy.

Amy Lor | she/her | Hmong-Australian

Jisoo's Friend

Amy felt disconnected from both the Australian and Hmong communities, leading to shame about her heritage. She proudly embraces her culture as an actor today and aims to uplift others through powerful, diverse storytelling.
When Amy misses her hometown, she loves a plate of Papaya Salad.

part four: the budget

Our funds have been allocated as seen above. 

We are very fortunate to have many people helping us for no fees, including but not limited to location hires, cast and crew. Any extra funds will be put towards paying location fees and wages to show our immense appreciation for their time and effort dedicated to the film. 

By donating, you will be making a huge impact in supporting up-and-coming Asian-Australian creatives and Asian-Australian businesses.