The struggle for superhero glory: Can ‘Keluang Man' finally lift Malaysian heroes to new heights?
With Keluang Man set to release at the end of the month, you can't help but wonder — could this be the film that finally puts Malaysian superheroes on the map? History shows that local heroes have experienced both highs and lows.
The Cicakman trilogy
A prime example — and you've probably heard this one before — is Cicakman, which generated considerable hype when it was first announced.
Produced by KRU Studios, the first film released in 2006 was directed by Datuk Yusry Abdul Halim, and featured a star-studded cast including Saiful Apek, Fasha Sandha, and Aznil Nawawi. It was a box-office success, grossing RM5.15 million.
Despite that, the film drew mixed responses from netizens, claiming it fell short on visuals, cultural depth, and meaningful storytelling.
'Cicakman 3', starring Zizan Razak, is the latest instalment in the Cicakman film franchise. — Picture via YouTube/Astro Shaw
Nevertheless, the success created waves for the franchise, spawning comics, novels, and, of course, a sequel: Cicakman 2: Planet Hitam (2008).
While the sequel received positive reviews, it was a commercial failure, taking in only RM2.85 million compared to the first film.
However, the franchise was strong enough to produce one final film, Cicakman 3, featuring a new cast including Zizan Razak and Lisa Surihani, which earned RM2.56 million.
Badang bombs, and fading local heroes
While the Cicakman franchise has had its moments of glory, one local hero remains memorable for all the wrong reasons — Badang, clad in a lime green costume, from a film produced by FiTA Studios and released in 2018.
Starring Datuk Seri Aliff Syukri, the film holds the unfortunate title of Malaysia's worst-performing superhero movie at the box office, earning a mere RM93,496.54. It was widely criticised for its lack of originality, weak plot, and forced humour — just a few of its many glaring shortcomings.
The film 'Badang' holds the unfortunate distinction of being Malaysia's worst-performing superhero movie at the box office. — Picture via YouTube/UiTM
Unless you've Googled them, chances are you've never heard of Mantera: Man Transformable Exo-Robotic Armor (2012), which made RM358,573, or Kapoww!! (2010), which pulled in just RM271,492 — both faded fast, barely leaving a mark on the Malaysian cinema scene.
Global status for local superhero movies
Live action aside, perhaps the only local costumed superheroes to have reached global status are the animated ones.
In addition to their success as animated series, films like BoBoiBoy and Mechamato have made waves internationally, winning over audiences in countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, and more.
Ejen Ali has since joined their ranks, with its debut film grossing over RM30 million locally, and the sequel is already generating excitement, especially after its mind-blowing trailer.
Can the Keluang Man film elevate the local live-action superhero genre?
It's worth noting that Keluang Man is not a new superhero; it has been around since the '90s, receiving favourable reviews, and this marks its first revival as a live-action film.
From a marketing perspective, it's already showing tremendous potential, supported by strong collaborations with well-known brands like Wonda Kopi, Royal Selangor, Fung Keong, myBurgerLab, and Abstrax.
Additionally, events like the 'Keluang Man Fun Run' and the feature mural in Kluang — a striking three-storey artwork celebrating the iconic superhero — have garnered nationwide admiration.
A striking three-storey artwork celebrating 'Keluang Man' in Kluang. — Picture courtesy of Astro Shaw
It's an experience never before seen for a local superhero.
Seasoned film reviewer Wahab Hamzah noted that while there have been solid marketing efforts for local superhero films in the past, nothing quite matches the scale and creativity of what Keluang Man is doing.
'I hope Keluang Man becomes the kind of movie that Malaysians can truly connect with, just like their love for Kluang coffee.'
Director Anwari Ashraf hopes the film will recapture the nostalgia of those who grew up with the character during its original animated run.
The full success of the film 'Keluang Man' will only be known after its release on May 29. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin
'Now parents to a new generation.
'An open love letter for millennials, to be passed to the next generation,' Anwari added.
At first glance, the strong marketing strategy and positive response to the Keluang Man trailer suggest the film has the potential to break new ground.
As for the film's success, only time will tell when the Bat Hero — or rather, the Keluang Hero — swings into cinemas on May 29.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malay Mail
12 hours ago
- Malay Mail
JAM OFF 2025 Returns To Singapore With Star-Studded Line-Up In The Prelude To Singapore's Race Weekend
Ticketing Information SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 August 2025 -Singapore's race weekend celebrations will hit a new high astransforms Sentosa into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and talent onOrganised by, and supported by the, JAM OFF 2025 will deliver two high-energy days of world-class performances, exclusive entertainment experiences, and cross-cultural exchange in the lead-up to the highly anticipated Singapore race festival's spotlight shines brightest on, where music meets the thrills at the park for a truly unique concert experience. Fans can look forward to, delivering his signature charisma and show-stopping stage presence, alongside some of– Ekin Cheng, Hins Cheung, Stephy Tang, JC, and Nowhere Boys – all set to light up the theme park with their hits and high-energy to the excitement, festival-goers can enjoy select experiences fromat Universal Studios Singapore, making this a weekend where adrenaline and artistry collide. Public ticket sales open ) and Ticketmaster, and fans are urged to secure their spots early for this one-of-a-kind GPSS Event Director of Destinations Network Tourism and Leisure Marketing OFF's position within the GPSS calendar extends beyond concerts to spotlight regional and cultural talent exchange. The festival's two signature competitions –(27 September) and(28 September) – return to, bringing together powerhouse vocals and electrifying 2vs2 dance battles. Contestants will vie for cash prizes, trips to the next JAM OFF stop, and the opportunity to perform on an international stage before an all-star judging panel from Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Malaysia, and South run from 16 August to 12 September via this link. Aspiring finalists will perform in English or Chinese (Mandarin/Cantonese) at the Grand Finals on 27 September, before a distinguished judging panel featuring Singaporean beatboxer, Hong Kong, China-based soprano, and Singaporean entertainer. Apart from the Judges' Winner, the live audience will also get to participate by voting for their favourite as the. Winners will also receive cash prizes and round-trip tickets to the next JAM OFF VOICE showcase, with all prizes presented by Hong Kong, China's Stephy see top regional dance crews battle it out in the Breaking 2vs2 and All Style 2vs2 categories, with registrations running from 17 August to 26 September via the Diggin app. Champion and Runner-Up teams will walk away with cash prizes and round-trip flights to the next JAM OFF BEATS stop for an electrifying showdown.," continued EvetteBeyond the headline acts and competitions, JAM OFF 2025, proudly part of the GPSS celebrations, will turn Palawan Green into a buzzing festival village bursting with sights, sounds and 27 and 28 September, visitors can dive into interactive games, cool off with race-themed ice lollipops, and be swept up in the energy of live performances from JAM OFF VOICE and BEATS finalists, together with artistes from Hong Kong, China and Singapore. Every corner will offer something to discover, creating an atmosphere alive with music, culture and camaraderie, and building the anticipation that will sweep through Singapore ahead of race full programme and details of, please visit's Official Instagram Page Tickets for JAM OFF 2025's headline concerts at Universal Studios Singapore are now on sale. For the latest line-up announcements and registration details for VOICE and BEATS, visit JAM OFF's official Instagram (@jamoff_official) or Xiao Hong Shu images for media use here: Press Kit Hashtag: #JAMOFF2025 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Destinations Network Tourism and Leisure Marketing Ltd. Destinations Network Tourism and Leisure Marketing Ltd. A Subsidiary of Shun Tak Holdings Ltd., is an event agency of the Group, specialising in curating one-of-a-kind experiences for global audiences. Based in Hong Kong, China, Destinations Network (DN) provides a comprehensive suite of services, seamlessly managing events from concept development to execution, and through to comprehensive marketing. Beyond its wide-ranging capabilities, DN also develops its own original IPs and event concepts spanning diverse sectors, from fashion and lifestyle to art and music. As a creative hub of endless possibilities, Destinations Network commits to deliver unique, exceptional and memorable experiences. About JAM OFF JAM OFF is Asia's premier music and lifestyle festival, spotlighting the region's next wave of talent and celebrating the vibrancy of urban youth culture. With music at its core, JAM OFF unites emerging and breakout artistes from across the region, spanning genres from indie and alt-pop to hip-hop, R&B, and cross-genre collaborations. The two-day festival delivers a high-energy, multi-sensory experience. Singing and dancing contests kick things off at Palawan Green, Sentosa, followed by live performances by renowned Asian artistes on 27-28 September 2025 at Universal Studios Singapore. JAM OFF also features immersive content zones, curated food and retail pop-ups, interactive installations, and beachside energy. Launched in 2024 and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, JAM OFF as part of Grand Prix Season Singapore, sets the tone for celebration while carving a distinct identity rooted in creativity, cultural connection, and social discovery. For more information please visit:
Malay Mail
13 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Senimalaya brings Ruang Teduh art space to life in KL's Exchange 106
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 — Online arts portal Senimalaya has opened its first physical art gallery called Ruang Teduh at Exchange 106 in Tun Razak Exchange, Kuala Lumpur, marking a new chapter in its efforts to promote local arts and culture. The art gallery, an initiative by Exchange 106, aims to provide a dedicated space for exhibitions and contemporary art discussions in the city centre as well as in support the growth of local arts. 'Senimalaya is truly honoured to be given the opportunity to collaborate with Exchange 106 in supporting local artistic endeavours,' said Senimalaya editorial lead Irwan Muhammad Zain. 'Ruang Teduh carries the mission of being an open and inclusive contemporary art space in the heart of Kuala Lumpur's development.' He said the gallery is intended to become a meeting point between the arts community and the wider public, while also driving critical artistic discourse to 'greater heights'. Ruang Teduh opened its doors on August 16 with its debut exhibition RASA Merdeka! — a collaboration with Galeri Puteh — which runs until September 16. Senimalaya, launched last year as a portal dedicated to arts, culture, heritage and literature, is part of Media Work Sdn Bhd. The new gallery is located at Lot UG 31 & 32, Exchange 106, Lingkaran TRX, Tun Razak Exchange, Kuala Lumpur.
Malay Mail
15 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Strengthened through time: KLP48 shares their first-year journey together and expectations for the KLP48 theatre
KUALA LUMPUR, August 20 — Malaysia-based idols group KLP48 have just celebrated their first year anniversary — and they are just beginning. KLP48 who is the tenth international sister group of the renowned Japanese idol's AKB48, also boasts a total of 13 members made up of both local and international idols including Yi Shyan, Salwa, Lucine, Amanda, Ann Drea, Tiffany, Khalies, Devi, Hillary, Haruka, Cocoa, Suzuha and Yurina. The first generation members of KLP48 include seven Malaysians, four Japanese, one Indonesian and one from Hong Kong, China. The four Japanese members, Haruka, Cocoa, Suzuha, and Yurina were transferred from AKB48 and sister group STU48 based in Setouchi. Following a series of audition processes that took around three months involving thousands of aspiring talents, the group officially formed in July 2024 and debuted their first ever single Heavy Rotation in August that year. The group who marked their first year anniversary with a special concert at Zepp KL recently had also released a four-track mini album titled First Cry earlier in June this year. A bond strengthened through time Since their formation in July 2024, KLP48 have learned the importance of having good communication and supporting each other. — Picture by Firdaus Latiff Despite their matching outfits, unified vocals and harmonious choreography, being in an Idol group, especially a large one with members from different countries and age groups can be overwhelming at times. This is also something that KLP48 have learned in the past year and according to the group's captain Yi Shyan, being open and honest with each other on top of having good communication are key in managing the group. 'I think managing such a big group is not easy but we all have good communication with each other. 'Whatever issues arise, we will try to talk it out with each other instead of just keeping it inside because it will just cause more problems in the future. 'It's quite hectic sometimes but it's also nice when you can talk to someone from different age groups and see their point of view,' Yi Shyan told Malay Mail. Currently, KLP48 consists of members aged from 15 years old to 26 years old and all of them are currently juggling their idol life between school or college – which means having good time management is crucial for them. For example, one of the group members Ann Drea said that she would usually list down her school and idol schedules in her calendar every month and make sure none of them clash. However in cases of clashes, Ann Drea would weigh out which events are more important and postpones the ones that she can. One of the unique points of KLP48 lies in their ability to perform songs in multiple languages– the group alone has released several songs in four different languages including Japanese, Bahasa Malaysia, English and Mandarin – and it wasn't an easy thing to pull. For instance, their rendition of the Shonichi song which is in Mandarin had seen KLP48 members having to learn the language from scratch however the process was eased with the assistance of Mandarin-speaking members in the group who helped explain the meaning of the song and lyrics. Group member Amanda shared that although it took her around two hours to finish recording her part of the song yet she is still proud to not just be able to give her best but she's also proud with the fact that she could now speak a little bit of Mandarin. The process is also the same with the Japanese members of the group – who now have to learn at least the basics of all four languages. Group member Suzuha admitted that when she first came to Malaysia last year, she couldn't speak English or BM however she took the initiative to learn both languages by attending classes and she also has built a habit of memorising one word daily. And not just that, another group member Cocoa shared that KLP48 members also had some help from parents, particularly from Ann Drea parents who helped teach some Mandarin phrases to some of the girls while treating them to a hot pot dinner. Aside from that, the group would also have to attend one to two vocal classes for each of their songs before they go on recording and they would also turn up to the studio at least an hour earlier just to practice with each other. KLP48's new home The KLP48 Theatre is set to open in Lalaport BBCC and it will serve as a second home for KLP48. — Picture by Firdaus Latiff The recent KLP48 1st Year Anniversary Bloom Concert which saw nearly 2,000 fans coming together to catch their favourite idols were also greeted with a few surprises and one of the most intriguing is the announcement of KLP48's own theatre. The theatre which is set to open in Lalaport BBCC is said to follow the footsteps of AKB48 Theatre in Tokyo where the venue would host live performances by different AKB48 teams and trainees on an almost daily basis. Sharing more about the KLP48 Theatre, Yi Shyan said that the theatre will act as a second home for the girl group and their fans will be able to catch them more often after this and not just at big concerts or festivals. She said that the theatre is also hugely inspired by the AKB48 Theatre in Japan however with a little bit of a Malaysian touch to make it special. 'For me what makes KLP48 really different is that we're not all the same, we have so many nationalities and each of us has such a different personality and style. 'When you put all of that together on one stage it creates something really unique. 'So when fans come to the theatre I think they'll feel that closeness and energy but also see something you can only experience with KLP48,' Yi Shyan said. Aside from that, KLP48 which is managed by 48 Entertainment Sdn Bhd, is also on the hunt for their second generation members. With the audition process officially closed last August 1, they are now a step closer to finding the second generation of KLP48 members.
