I Not Stupid Too

Jerry is passionate about performing arts and lands the lead in his primary school concert, seeking applause and validation from his family. His longing to be seen drives him to push for attention, sometimes through risky choices. When his father’s tutoring scheme nudges him toward theft, Jerry confronts the true motive behind his actions. His confession reveals a deeper wish to belong and be recognized at home and school.

Tom is a 15-year-old tech-savvy student and budding blogger who feels unseen by his busy parents. His online persona and mobile-world confidence mask a deeper sense of isolation at home and school. A pivotal moment—being caught with a pornographic VCD—forces him to confront harsh consequences and the fragility of adult-teen trust. He and his friends navigate pressure, discipline, and the longing for parental attention.

Chengcai is Tom’s best friend whose tough exterior masks a talent for Chinese martial arts and a troubled disciplinary history. Expelled from school after conflicts with authority, he nevertheless pursues his talent with stubborn determination. His bond with Tom deepens as both boys chase belonging, even as their choices threaten their futures. A pivotal figure in the story of loyalty, aspiration, and forgiveness.

Steven Yeo, the father, is a hardworking presence trying to balance work with family life. He believes in discipline and structure, sometimes channeling that into tutoring and guidance for Jerry. His stern moments, including the caning, reveal the strain between providing for and truly connecting with his children. The arc shows a father learning to listen and adapt to his kids’ needs.

Karen Yeo shares the challenge of juggling work and family in a fast-paced environment. She and Steven begin to realize how alienated their children feel, prompting a shift toward listening and involvement. Her supportive presence becomes a bridge as the family reconnects during Jerry’s concert. She embodies the effort to balance care with responsibility.

The school principal represents institutional authority, enforcing rules and handling crises with a measured hand. She expels Chengcai at a critical moment, underscoring the consequences of disciplinary lapses. Her actions, tempered by the situation, help steer the school toward a more compassionate approach. She embodies the tension between discipline and understanding within education.

Chengcai’s father carries a rugged past and a long-standing love for his son. His condition worsens over time, and on his deathbed he urges Chengcai to pursue his martial arts talent. This moment of vulnerability strengthens the family bond and motivates Chengcai to strive for excellence. His guidance becomes a turning point for the boy’s future.

A conman posing as a police officer creates a dangerous moment for Tom and Chengcai, demanding a hefty payoff to avoid arrest. The scam exposes vulnerabilities in the boys’ attempts to find belonging and the adults’ protective oversight. The sting operation that follows leads to the conmen’s arrest, highlighting the risks of manipulation. The incident serves as a cautionary tale about deceit and exploitation.