Latest news with #AnwariAshraf
Free Malaysia Today
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Free Malaysia Today
Go batty with the zany adventures of ‘Keluang Man'
Keluang Man (Nas-T) is certainly all fired up to get revenge on his brother. (Astro Shaw pic) PETALING JAYA : Look, up in the sky! Is it a bat? Is it a wau?! No, it's Keluang Man, making his way to the silver screen at long last! Blockbuster superhero films have been the rage over the last decade, so it was only a matter of time that this beloved Malaysian superhero got his own cinematic adventure. 'Keluang Man' is a largely faithful live-action adaptation of the 1990s cartoon series produced by UAS Animation Studio. Its serious and silly elements sometimes clash but, overall, it's a fun superhero adventure. The big-screen version is produced by Astro Shaw and marks the directorial debut of Anwari Ashraf, the writer of hits such as the 'Polis Evo' trilogy and 'Project: High Council'. In the film, Borhan (Nas-T), a patient at the Tampoi Psychiatric Centre in Kluang, spends his days arguing with other inmates and undergoing sessions with the beautiful and intelligent Dr Malini (Shweta Sekhon). Borhan hears voices in his head – more precisely, just one voice: that of iconic actor and radio announcer Halim Othman. When a chance encounter triggers memories of Borhan's dramatic past, which involves a betrayal by his once-trusted brother Shamsir (Remy Ishak), Borhan becomes eager for revenge. Fortunately, his psychiatric facility has the lowest level of security ever, allowing him to leave regularly for his crusade of justice as the masked vigilante Keluang Man; while the grizzled Inspector Sahab (Anwaar Beg Moghal) – who happens to be Dr Malini's brother – is hot on his trail. Shweta Sekhon plays the intelligent Dr Malini, who forms a bond with Borhan. (Astro Shaw pic) At first glance, this stylish superhero seems to be a local version of Batman. But this is a different story, as the film will remind you numerous times. A wisecracking misfit with the ability to break the fourth wall? Keluang Man has just as much in common with Deadpool as he does the Dark Knight! Acting-wise, the performers are decent, with Rosyam Nor as Borhan's old mentor Ahmad being particularly noteworthy. That said, Halim Othman's voice acting is the most outstanding of the lot! Much like its eponymous character, however, 'Keluang Man' suffers from a bit of an identity crisis. The film wants to be a serious superhero story and a parody of the genre at the same time, and the rapid shifts in tone can be quite disorienting. The movie is at its funniest when making humorous observations of Malaysian culture, or taking little jabs at other superhero movies. It does attempt to explore themes such as family, identity and revenge, but this feels mostly perfunctory, existing mainly to tie the action and comedy scenes together. Apart from fighting crime, Keluang Man has time to pursue his little art projects. (Astro Shaw pic) The fight scenes are executed well, especially during the climactic clash set in a pillow factory. Alas, while entertaining, this sequence drags on a bit and feels melodramatic, flying in the face of the film's generally humorous vibe. 'Keluang Man' does have a killer soundtrack, which features many throwback hits from the 2000s. Fans will also appreciate numerous references to the original animated series sprinkled through the story. Minor gripes aside, this is a fun superhero comedy, a popcorn flick with lots of local flavour. Importantly, it seems to have been made with love and as a tribute to longtime fans, which is commendable in and of itself. This is also the first entry in the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe, which suggests the character will return soon. Hopefully Borhan will have more interesting adventures to come: who knows, he might even cross paths with a Marvel superhero some day! 'Keluang Man' starts screening in local cinemas from tomorrow.
Malay Mail
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
‘Keluang Man' premiere sparks pride as the Malaysia's original superhero comes alive in a 100pc homegrown blockbuster
KUALA LUMPUR, May 23 — The Keluang Man gala premiere was truly special, with every moment filled with excitement and anticipation. A select group of guests enjoyed an exclusive first look at the long-awaited Keluang Man film ahead of its nationwide release. And the film delivered in every way. Not only did it raise the bar for local storytelling, the 132-minute feature seamlessly blends high-octane action sequences, emotional depth, and uniquely Malaysian elements, all underscored by a nostalgic soundtrack that plays throughout. Cast reaction of finally seeing the film come to life After months of filming and promotion, the cast members shared their excitement at seeing this masterpiece come to life. Star of the film, Nas Muammar Zar, better known as Nas-T, said that he put himself in the audience's shoes and was genuinely satisfied with the final result. 'It's all thanks to director Anwari Ashraf, who wrote and directed it, and I entrusted everything to him. 'He moulded my character, and I followed his direction faithfully.' Nas Muammar Zar said that he put himself in the audience's shoes and was genuinely satisfied with the final result. — Picture by Hari Anggara Datuk Rosyam Nor added that the dedication and effort of the crew and production team contributed immensely — going above and beyond, giving more than 100 percent. 'Of course, as actors, we interpret the characters as best we can, but just look at our wardrobe, look at the effects — everything was fully supported. 'This is filmmaking at its best, where the story flows seamlessly — there's humour, action, drama, sadness, and friendship.' Datuk Zalimei Ishak, better known as Remy Ishak, explained that the film takes a much more modern approach and differs greatly from the original animation. He also shared that Nas was the ideal choice for the character of Borhan. 'Despite having limited martial arts experience, Nas showed strong potential to embody Keluang Man during training,' he said. Anwaar Beg Moghal was overwhelmed to finally see the final product and was just amazed that the audience were clapping and laughing at the jokes. 'I am totally blown up, and my energy level right now is like 100 per cent.' Anwaar added that with a film like Keluang Man, there will definitely be more Malaysian heroes emerging in the future. Shweta Sekhon shared how she was smiling throughout the film and felt an overwhelming sense of relief. 'I think as actors, all of us have our own memories, and still, at the end of the day, when you act in this shot without you seeing it everywhere, in our mind, it's like a puzzle. 'To see the puzzle complete today, one thing I can tell myself is I'm so proud of myself, and I'm so proud of the entire team.' Shweta added she would of course love to continue to play the character of Dr Malini for a long time and is really looking forward to what's next for the whole Keluang Man team. 'I really hope the world would support this film because it would be a boost for us to do better and do much nicer and do it on a much greater scale. 'It's high time for everyone to see that Malaysia can produce a film that is actually a blockbuster,' Shweta added. Shweta Sekhon plays Doctor Malini in 'Keluang Man'. — Picture by Raymond Manuel Malaysian superhero masterpiece The film was 100 per cent Malaysian-made — from pre-production to post-production — and was shot over 64 days in locations including Kuala Lumpur, Kluang, Ipoh, and Klang. Spanning two years of production and promotion, it cost over RM13 million to bring to life. Keluang Man ignites a sense of national pride as Malaysia's original superhero, and this film marks the beginning of the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe (ASCU). Tickets for Keluang Man are now on sale, and audiences can finally catch the long-awaited film in just a few days. 'I hope audiences will embrace this film and help reignite the spirit of the superhero Keluang Man, so that his legacy can be passed down from one generation to the next,' said director Anwari Ashraf. Expect the unexpected as you follow the hero Borhan — also known as Keluang Man — alongside Ahmad, Shamsir, Inspector Sahab, and Doktor Malini, in what promises to be a cinematic masterpiece like no other. The cast shares their experience of bringing the story of Malaysia's beloved superhero, 'Keluang Man', to the big screen. — Picture by Raymond Manuel
New Straits Times
24-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Halim Othman estranged from daughter over a year, seeks to reconcile
KUALA LUMPUR: Popular host and former radio presenter Halim Othman has revealed that he has been estranged from his daughter, actress Myra Natasya, for over a year. Halim, 60, whose full name is Abdul Halim Othman, said he is still hopeful for reconciliation. "There is no 'constant contact,' but I sent her a message in the hope that we would meet to rekindle the relationship." "It's been over a year since we last saw each other," he said. "I gave her a chance. Gave her time to calm down and space for us to make peace again." The rift between the two is believed to have stemmed from Myra's public disclosure of her status as an illegitimate child. Myra, 30, whose full name is Yusmyra Natasya Abdullah, had asserted that Halim and her mother, Yusnita Omar, were never legally married in Thailand, as previously reported, and raised questions about the paternity details on her birth certificate. Asked about his Hari Raya celebrations, Halim said that this year's Aidilfitri was a joyful occasion as he was able to return to his hometown in Terengganu and reunite with his extended family. "I didn't celebrate Hari Raya with my children, but we wished one another a good Hari Raya celebration," he said at the Keluang Man movie trailer launch ceremony at TRX yesterday. "It can be said that it was one of the most festive Hari Raya I've had. I returned to Terengganu 10 days after Hari Raya." Shifting the focus to his involvement in the upcoming superhero film Keluang Man, directed by Anwari Ashraf, Halim expressed his enthusiasm for the project. He said he found it impossible to decline the opportunity, especially after the director revealed that he was creating a special character inspired by Halim's persona. "How could I say no when they said no one else could do the role but me?" Halim said. "So I feel very moved and impressed by Anwari Ashraf's imagination to incorporate the memories of Malaysia in 1998 and around 2000 into our superhero film." He hinted that several characters in the film adaptation of the popular 1990s animated series will evoke memories of his radio career and hosting style. Halim also shared the challenges of his role, which required him to act and portray the thoughts of the film's protagonist. "It's not easy. There are two different characters in the actual hero, one of which is me, but there's no picture of me, only my voice," he added. Describing his involvement in the film as a "fun experience" working with Anwari Ashraf, Halim stopped short of calling it a comeback in the Malaysian entertainment scene. Keluang Man, produced by Astro Shaw, boasts a star-studded cast including Nas Muammar Zar (Nas-T), Datuk Remy Ishak, Datuk Rosyam Nor, Anwaar Beg Moghal, and Shweta Sekhon.
