Portal:Singapore/Selected article/17

I Not Stupid (Chinese: 小孩不笨; pinyin: Xiǎohái Bù Bèn; lit. 'The Children Are Not Stupid') is a Singaporean comedy film revolving around three Primary 6 pupils who are placed in the academically inferior Primary EM3 stream. The film is directed by Jack Neo, who spent over two years researching and editing the script of this film. The film was first released in Singapore on 9 February 2002, and it was subsequently released in Malaysia, Thailand and Hong Kong. This film was also screened at a number of film festivals, winning several awards. Critics praised the film for its humour and uniqueness, noting that it touched a raw nerve among Singaporeans.

I Not Stupid earned over S$3.8 million and is the third-highest grossing Singaporean movie. Its satirical criticism of the Singaporean education system and social attitudes in Singapore sparked public discussions and parliamentary debates that led to reforms in the education system.