SINGAPORE – Local actress Sharon Au, the star of actor Qi Yuwu’s directorial debut film, has expressed her gratitude as she wished him a happy birthday.

“Working with you on your debut short film was not just an incredible creative experience, but a deeply personal journey for me,” Au wrote on social media on Nov 28. Qi, a Singapore-based actor from Guangzhou, China, turned 48 on that day.

Au, 49, and local actor Darren Lim, 52, play a couple in Qi’s Chinese-language film tentatively titled Where The Heart Is, which will be 20 to 25 minutes long.

“Under your direction, I faced my inner demons and, for the first time, confronted myself with honesty. You gave me the space and trust to show a side of myself I had never revealed before, and for that, I am profoundly grateful,” she wrote.

The actress, who is based in Paris, said Qi’s vision, patience and guidance created an environment where she felt safe enough to explore the rawest parts of her soul.

“Thank you for this rare opportunity to work together – it has not only shaped me as an actor but also as a person,” she said.

Au also wrote: “On this special day, I wish you endless inspiration, boldness in every story you choose to tell, and the joy of seeing your work touch hearts around the world. May this year bring you even more success, fulfilment and magical moments on your creative journey.”

She added: “Here’s to many more films, and I hope we get to create something together again someday.”

Au also sent her best wishes to his wife, local actress Joanne Peh, 41; their two children, aged seven ...