JOEL PAU

I’m Joel, a filmmaker and screenwriter driven by a passion for storytelling that crosses borders and speaks to the universal human experience. Growing up in Kuala Lumpur, films were my gateway to a world beyond the horizon—a vast, unexplored realm that fueled my imagination and shaped my sense of identity. In Malaysia’s rich, diverse landscape, I was exposed to a tapestry of cultures and worldviews that profoundly deepened my understanding of life and, in turn, the characters I create. 

My body of work, from feature screenplays to short films, which have garnered top honors and selections at international film festivals, strongly reflects the diverse experiences that have shaped my perspective. I strive to craft stories that are raw, real, and rooted in the complexity of human emotion. I also love writing high concept philosophical cinema, and stories about the art of creating.  Beyond entertainment, I hope my films inspire—leaving viewers with something meaningful to carry with them, or perhaps a new understanding of the world around them.

I hope my films help others find their own sense of wonder and possibility in this vast, complicated world, sparking a connection to something greater.

I am currently a student at Wesleyan University, undergoing my Bachelor of Arts degree in Film Studies and Theater under the Freeman Asian Scholarship. At Wesleyan, I am the Executive Producer and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Coordinator of Cardinal Pictures, Wesleyan's largest student-led film production house. Additionally, I hold a distinction for my Licentiate Trinity College London (LTCL) qualification in Music Performance.