#SHOWBIZ: A story of grief
AWARD-winning filmmaker Dain Iskandar Said returns to the locations from his iconic film 'Bunohan', and again sets his tormented characters lurking in the dark swamps and a magical world.
Set in a coastal Malaysian village in the 1980s, 'Kulit Wayang' tells the story of Ramlee or Pak Lee, a reclusive outcast living deep in the dark swamps, talking to his shadow play puppets late into the night.
The locals steer clear of Pak Lee, believing that he committed a heinous act in the past.
Then, Dewi arrives with her mother, Dian, an Indonesian researching the famed shadow puppet traditions of the village.
While her mother does her research, Dewi befriends the local swamp kids, especially drawn to the mysterious but mute Ayu.
Egged on by Ayu, Dewi finds Pak Lee's lair in the swamps and becomes his student.
As the bodies of children killed by a man-eating crocodile start turning up, Dian starts to notice Dewi's increasingly bizarre behaviour.
Dewi seems to be channelling voices from the past who seek retribution but she is endangering her life.
FOLKLORE
The movie is produced by Mico Studio (M) Sdn Bhd, with Nevin Hiong as its producer.
The main cast comprises Fattah Amin, Pekin Ibrahim, Amanda Ang, and Indonesian female leads Reynavenzka Deyandra and Jenna Kamaratih.
In a recent interview, Dain said that 'Kulit Wayang' combines Malay folklore with wayang kulit.
"It is a fairytale exploring grief and loss, love and reconciliation.
"I was intrigued to learn that traditional Malay shadow puppeteers invent their own branch stories (cerita ranting), weaving new storylines derived off the main 'Ramayana' epic. So, 'Kulit Wayang' can be a modern take on the branch-storytelling tradition."
Dain said that children's imaginations have no limits, and in this movie that idea takes on vengeful and tragic consequences, especially on the lead character, seven-year-old Dewi.
"Through befriending a ghost, she helps shadow puppet master Pak Lee reconcile with his past and the truth of what really happened in his village long ago," said Dain.
TERENGGANU
'Kulit Wayang' was filmed in Terengganu and the screenplay was written by Dain, Ben Omar and Nandita Solomon.
Dain said: "In 2018, producer Nevin and I met and discussed this movie.
"We were about to shoot in 2020 but the Covid-19 pandemic delayed that plan."
Dain added that they filmed at a picturesque "black water forest" which looked enchanting, but initially the water receeded and they had to wait until after the completion of his supernatural film 'Harum Malam' in 2022.
IMPRESSED
When asked about casting multi-talented Fattah as the protagonist Pak Lee, Dain said: "I have seen Fattah in several movies. He is talented and Nevin has worked with him before."
Dain added that he was impressed by Fattah's commitment to the film.
"Fattah went out on his own and learnt from a dalang.
"He did very well in the limited amount of time leading up to the production.
"He is very focused and dedicated. He also bonded well with Jenna on the set."
It is Dain's first time working with the Indonesian actresses.
"We auditioned them in 2020. Then there was a delay due to Covid-19 and we could not use the first girl as she had grown up.
"Right before shooting we managed an online casting and found Jenna. She is very disciplined and focused," he said.
This is Dain's second movie after Bunohan which uses the Kelantan Malay dialect.
He said: "The Kelantan dialect is like a language of its own. I grew up there, and I love the way they use the language, full of poetry and irony."
FAN
The movie is Dain's reunion with Pekin who starred in 'Bunohan'.
"Pekin is always wonderful to work with, he brings a lot to his characters," said Dain.
Dain admitted that he has been a wayang kulit fan since his childhood.
"I grew up watching wayang kulit at the beach in Tumpat."
Kulit Wayang also marks Dain's reunion with Amanda Ang, who also appeared in 'Harum Malam'.
"Amanda's character is a quirky one," he said.
Nevin said: "'Kulit Wayang' has the potential to resonate deeply with Malaysian audiences."
Fattah said: "The film highlights our fading traditions with the hope that the new generation will not forget it."
Pekin said: "I have worked with both the producer and director twice now, and I believe they have made an entertaining and creative movie."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
New Straits Times
an hour ago
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Silat sizzles up Malay dance drama
IT was an interesting tale of a woman who sacrificed love for the sake of her kingdom. Then weave good performance synchronicity and evocative music into the mix, and you get a great night at the theatre to remember. That's what 'Setanggi Tari Melayu' offered at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre in Selangor over a weekend recently. All this was courtesy of the ASK Dance Company and Faculty of Dance Aswara and the Music and Performing Arts Faculty of Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI). From the 'mengadap rebab' to silat, 'joget', 'inang', the 'piring' (saucer) segment, and the 'zapin', among other dances, the ASK ensemble offered an energetic performance. I was held in rapt attention by the silat segments. The timing is everything when you do fight scenes. There was one move where the lead silat dancer leapt backwards into the arms of his warriors, and eventually landed gracefully and safely. This is not something you watch on YouTube or on your small screen, but live. It takes lots of training, precision and, of course, luck. It certainly calls for trust in your fellow performers too. Lion dance troupes are known for such moves, and I really enjoyed the contemporising of silat moves in 'Setanggi Tari Melayu' by young dancers that fine night. Malaysians of a certain era would have learnt some Malay dances in school, like the 'piring' dance and the candle dance. The way the ASK male dancers delivered the 'piring' dance that evening was jaunty, with plates being juggled and bounced to each other in time to the beat. Sure, we may have waited, anxiously, for one to fall, but none did! The dancers also left the stage to 'joget' up the aisles, offering the audience a more intimate connection to the show. Kudos to ASK Dance Company founder and artistic director Prof Dr Joseph Gonzales, Azmie Zanal Abdden, Mohd Fauzi Amiruddin, creative producer Imran Syafiq, and Mohd Zulkarnain Zuber, who put together the impressive choreography. The music held a special place and the programme e-book listed Indonesian groups like Samudra ensemble and Sanggar for additional compositions. Overall, the music effectively swept the audience up in its aural proceedings and perfectly complemented the various mesmerising scenes onstage. The main leads in the show — Nadhirah Rahmat as Princess Melati, Wong Shan Tie as the devoted sister Princess Melur and Mohamad Adlan Sairin as Prince Adam — staged well-choreographed moves to deliver the tale. The dance drama is about Melati and Melur, who are trained in silat, under the tutelage of their loving parents, played by Seth Hamzah and Ezydiyanie Omar (both Aswara faculty members). A rather modern kingdom that lets women become heirs to the throne, it is rich with a sought-after magical keris that Melati (I guess) would inherit. Along comes Prince Adam, and they got betrothed, but it is eventually revealed that he has bad intentions. At the end, in a kick-ass scene, Melati kills him, with Melur's assistance. The betrothal night scene, when Melati kills the prince, is surreal, even mystical. Held behind a white gauzy screen, the duo is subtly seen as shadowy characters enacting love and then some wickedness. Although behind a screen, the expressions on their faces, as well as their body movements are clear. Quite a cinematic scene indeed! Overall, 'Setanggi Tari Melayu' was an exciting dance drama that featured several outstanding silat sequences. It was thoroughly an enjoyable watch.
Hype Malaysia
7 hours ago
- Hype Malaysia
From Freddie Aguilar To Choi Jung-woo: 9 Celebrities Who Passed Away Recently
As we enter the summer season, we pause to remember several beloved celebrities who have recently passed away. Their contributions have left lasting impressions that continue to inspire and shape generations. Each individual on this list carried a unique spark, now honoured with both sorrow and gratitude. We celebrate not only their fame but also the emotions they stirred and the unforgettable moments they gave us. From iconic roles to memorable performances, their presence became part of our collective memory. As we reflect on their lives, we also cherish the joy they brought to so many. Here are the notable names we've lost in recent weeks. Adinda Amiro The talented Saidin Omar, better known as Adinda Amiro, passed away on the night of 9th June (Monday) at 66. Confirmed by Ayob Abd Majid, the Deputy Chairman of Music Malaysia, he gave his condolences to the family stating 'Indeed, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. We express our deepest condolences to the family of the late Adinda Amiro (Saidin Omar) on his passing to the mercy of Allah'. He was known for getting out music that sticks with the Malaysian community to this day, with tracks such as 'Bukan Aku Tak Cinta' and 'Aduhai! Seribu Kali Sayang' performed by Iklim, 'Aku Tak Marah' and many more. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of fans and the everlasting music he left behind. Loretta Swit Fans of 'M*A*S*H' mourn the loss of their Major Margaret 'Hot Lips' Houlihan, played by Loretta Swit, who passed away on 30th May (Friday) at the age of 87. With her outstanding portrayal of the War nurse, she earned her two Emmy Awards and further roles in popular films such as 'Mission: Impossible' and 'Gunsmoke'. She was known to be an avid animal rights activist, founding the 'SwitHeart Animal Alliance' to support animal protection. Fans and family will continue to remember her as the engaging, warm outlook that she led her life with. Valerie Mahaffey On 30th May (Friday), Emmy Award-winning actress Valerie Mahaffey passed away at 71 after battling cancer. She was best known for her supporting roles as Mrs. McAllister in 'Young Sheldon', Alma Hodge in 'Desperate Housewives', and Madame Reynard in 'French Exit'. Her performances left a lasting impact on audiences and colleagues alike. The length of her illness remains private, respecting her family's wishes. Valerie was cherished for her warmth and humility, always making those around her feel valued. Friends believe she would have continued to bring humour, intelligence, and depth to new roles had she lived longer. Partho Ghosh The 75-year-old veteran filmmaker, Partho Ghosh, passed away on 9th June (Monday) from a heart attack. He was known to be the director of iconic indian films such as 'Ghulam-E-Mustafa' (1997) and '100 Days' (1991). The legend was a master at creating narratives that would forever leave an impact on generations. His death was confirmed by Rituparna Sengupta, stating in an interview, 'Heartbroken beyond words. We have lost an exceptional talent, a visionary director, and a kind soul. Partho da, you will always be remembered for the magic you created on screen. Rest in peace.' Wayne Lewis The world of R&B is in shock with the news of Wayne Lewis's passing on the 5th June (Thursday). He was the founder of the band Atlantic Starr, responsible for having hit songs back in the 90s such as 'Secret Lovers,' 'Always,' and 'Am I Dreaming?'. Their album had gone platinum in the U.S. Not only was he a talented musician and songwriter, but the 68-year-old star was renowned for being a generous and compassionate man dedicated to lifting other people's spirits. His band will continue to honour his legacy with their performances and celebrate the impact he made in the R&B and soul music industry. Vernon Steele Malaysia lost their 'Rod Stewart', Vernon Steele, on the 5th June (Thursday). He was 73 years old. Known for his decades in the music industry, he was never one to chase the life of fame. Instead, performing in clubs and small events, gaining a loyal family-like community. He had been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) last year, which led to his leg being amputated, and unable to perform anymore. People will not only remember him for his music, but for the kind and welcoming man he was. Choi Jung-woo (최정우) The Korean industry grieves the passing of the veteran actor Choi Jung-woo (최정우) on 27th May (Tuesday). He had many iconic roles in projects such as 'The Childe', 'The Tyrant, 'Doctor Stranger', and 'The Tale of Lady Ok', highlighting his theatrical talent. Additionally, the 68-year-old was best known to K-drama fans for his many appearances, even though he usually played supporting roles in film and television. His cause of death is undisclosed to the public. However, according to Yonhap News Agency, he had been battling depression and panic disorder for quite some time. His fans will continue to remember him through his memorable music and films. Freddie Aguilar The legendary Filipino folk singer-songwriter, Freddie Aguilar, passed away on the 27th May (Tuesday), at 72 years old. He's best known for his iconic song 'Anak' ('Child'), which was made as a poignant reflection on remorse and reconciliation. Not only was he a talented musician, but he also played a role in Filipino politics later in his life. He was a vocal advocate for the marginalised, touching on themes of poverty, injustice, and pride in his country. He will forever be remembered for his music and the act that he instilled 'Tax-Free Balikbayan Box', allowing Filipinos to be safe across the world. Jonathan Joss Fans of the show 'King of the Hill' are in shock at the death of Jonathan Joss, the voice behind John Redcorn. On the 1st June (Sunday), the voice actor was a target of a hate crime that led to his passing. He was known to be a warm and talented individual dedicated to working towards fair and inclusive media portrayals of Indigenous people. With notable acts such as his role in 'Parks and Recreation' and his performance in the Red Corn Band. His legacy will continue to live on as a reminder of why discrimination can lead to dangerous consequences and as the man who spread kindness and joy in the things he left behind. Sources: NST, Economic Times (1)(2), Washington Post, Soultracks, The Rakyat Post, Facebook (1)(2), Soompi Zaima Humaria contributed to this article What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
New Straits Times
8 hours ago
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Maher Zain to return to Malaysia after six years
PETALING JAYA: After a six-year hiatus from Malaysia, internationally renowned Swedish-Lebanese singer Maher Zain, 43, is set to return for his highly anticipated 2025 Southeast Asia Tour, with concerts scheduled in both Malaysia and Singapore this August. Speaking via video conference to reporters gathered at a press conference held at Ruang Ruma, Maher expressed his excitement about performing once again for his Southeast Asian fans. "It's been six years since I last visited Malaysia, and thank God, I'll be returning this August for the 2025 Southeast Asia Tour," he said. "I'm truly happy and excited to reconnect with fans in Malaysia and Singapore through my music – songs that I hope still resonate with many. Thank you to all my fans for your continued support." Currently based in Turkiye, Maher also touched on his Malay-speaking skills, admitting that he needs some practice after such a long absence. "I need to relearn and practise my Malay because it's been a while. But God willing, I'll pick it up again in the next two months," said the singer, who has several songs recorded in Malay. "It's important for me to speak Malay when I'm in Malaysia; it's a way of connecting with the audience. I just hope all preparations go smoothly." Maher rose to prominence in Malaysia through his spiritually inspired songs such as 'Insya Allah', 'Thank You Allah', 'The Chosen One', and 'Palestine Will Be Free', all featured on his 2009 debut album. His last performance in Malaysia was during the Maher Zain Malaysia Tour 2019, with shows at major venues including Axiata Arena Bukit Jalil, Pasir Gudang (Johor), SPICE Arena (Penang), and Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).
