Latest news with #AstroShaw
Free Malaysia Today
4 days ago
- 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.
Hype Malaysia
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
7,000 Fans Unite For 'Keluang Man'-Themed Run Event In KL In Anticipation Of Upcoming Film
Malaysia's most anticipated superhero action movie, 'Keluang Man', is set to take over cinemas nationwide starting 29th May 2025! Produced by Astro Shaw, 'Keluang Man' marks the inception of the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe. As part of the larger promotional campaign leading up to the highly anticipated superhero film, Astro Shaw teamed up with key partners to roll out a series of exciting collaborations. These collabs included the Wonda Kopi Kluang limited-edition collection with Wonda Coffee, the Wonda-ful 'Keluang Man' Burger in partnership with myBurgerLab, the exclusive 'Keluang Man' Premium Collection by Royal Selangor, and of course, the highlight—the 'Keluang Man' WONDA Fun Run. Speaking of which, here's what went down at the recent event: To build anticipation for the highly awaited live-action release of 'Keluang Man', Astro Shaw has launched an exhilarating, immersive experience with the 'Keluang Man WONDA Fun Run'—Malaysia's first-ever original superhero-themed run. This milestone event marked a groundbreaking collaboration between Keluang Man, Wonda Coffee, and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), held in conjunction with the city's Car Free Morning programme. The run, making its debut on 18th May in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, drew more than 7,000 enthusiastic participants of all ages for a vibrant 5km course that began at Menara DBKL. The morning of event kicked off at 6:45 am with a dynamic warm-up session, followed by the official flag-off at 7:00 am, led by none other than Keluang Man himself, mascot BeBe, and a DBKL representative. Adding a fun twist, runners donned Keluang Man masks, while select lucky participants received limited-edition jerseys that added a collectable thrill to the experience. Elevating the atmosphere, fans were treated to star appearances by the film's cast, including Nas Muammar Zar, Datuk Rosyam Nor, Shweta Sekhon, Anwaar Beg Moghal, Sham Sunder, and Razzuan Rosli. The energy soared further with live performances from Krisya, the vocalist of the film's official theme song, and local rock powerhouse S.O.G. The 'Keluang Man WONDA Fun Run' successfully united fans, fitness enthusiasts, and film lovers in a celebration of homegrown superhero pride, setting the stage for what promises to be an epic cinematic launch. Did you participate in the run event? Have you checked out the other collaborations? Regardless, we're sure you're excited to watch 'Keluang Man' when it hits cinemas next week! Check out the trailer below:
New Straits Times
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Yusof Haslam dreams of Syamsul, Syafiq film collaboration
VETERAN film producer Datuk Yusof Haslam, 70, has expressed his strong desire for his sons, Syamsul, 41, and Syafiq Yusof, 33, to collaborate on a film project. Yusof revealed that his wife, Datin Patimah Ismail, shares this dream, recognising the filmmaking talents of their two sons and their potential to carry on the family legacy. "God willing, it is my intention for Syamsul and Syafiq to work together. In fact, my wife also hopes for this. "However, perhaps the timing isn't right yet. Filmmaking requires a strong team, and I believe Syafiq's current collaboration with Abhilash Chandra is proving to be a successful formula." Yusof drew a parallel with the era of the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee, emphasising the importance of collaboration. "During P. Ramlee's time, there was a strong spirit of collaboration, with figures like S. Sudarmaji and others contributing to his success. "Similarly, I aim to foster strong partnerships with other industry players, such as Primeworks Studios and Astro Shaw, for our upcoming film, 'Sheriff 2'," he told 'Harian Metro'. Yusof said these collaborative efforts are designed to boost ties among local film companies, enabling them to collectively produce high-quality films. Syafiq's recent collaboration with Abhilash Chandra on 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga' has been a significant success, grossing over RM70 million within 25 days of its theatrical release. The film, produced by Skop Productions and Primeworks Studios with a budget of RM7 million, features a cast that includes Sharnaaz Ahmad, Syafiq Kyle, Amelia Henderson, Shukri Yahaya, Zamarul Hisham, Ray Dap Dap and Andy Teh.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Thai Horror ‘Delivery Man' Stalks Cannes Market With First Looks (EXCLUSIVE)
Night Edge Pictures and Thai-U.S. sales outfit EST N8 have unveiled the first looks at horror-thriller 'Delivery Man,' starring Bhumibhat 'Aim' Thavornsiri, Plearnpichaya 'Junéi' Komalarajun and Ananda Everingham, to buyers at the Cannes Film Market. The Bangkok-based Night Edge Pictures production follows a socially awkward, tech-savvy food delivery worker who develops a dangerous obsession with a female customer on his delivery route. More from Variety International Emmy Winner Aokbab Chutimon to Star in Thai Horror 'Fortune Seekers' as Night Edge Pictures Debuts Sales in Cannes (EXCLUSIVE) 'White Lotus' Star Dom Hetrakul Boards Cannes Market-Bound Thai Crime-Horror 'Debt Sentence' (EXCLUSIVE) Korean Drama 'Family Secrets' Inspired by Ferry Disaster Acquired by EST N8 at Hong Kong FilMart (EXCLUSIVE) Thavornsiri, who recently swept Thai awards season with his performance in 'In Youth We Trust' and has appeared in Netflix's 'Hunger' and 'Doi Boy,' takes the lead role of Guy. Komalarajun, known for 'OMG! Oh My Girl' and 'Love Stuck,' portrays Sai, an architect who becomes Guy's target in what the filmmakers describe as her most intense role to date. Veteran actor Everingham, known for the 'Khun Pan' trilogy and horror classic 'Shutter,' rounds out the main cast. The film is written and directed by Ornusa Donsawai and Pun Homchuen, with acclaimed filmmaker Kongkiat Komesiri co-writing. According to producers, the thriller aims to blend Korean cinema's suspenseful pacing with Thailand's signature storytelling approach while exploring the dark underbelly of stalker culture. 'Aim, Junéi and Ananda, who all will portray never-before-seen horror roles in their careers, are simply unmissable,' said Hans Audric Estialbo, CEO of Night Edge Pictures, which has previously distributed horror hits including 'Terrifier 3' and 'Talk to Me' in Thailand. The project recently added backing from Thai production company Benetone Films and Malaysian entertainment giant Astro Shaw. 'This is the kind of horror story that could happen to anybody and it's something that moviegoers of today will find eerie and frightening,' said Rachvin and Kulthep Narula, CEO and COO of Benetone Films. Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, head of Astro Shaw, added: 'Astro Shaw is proud to be part of this new wave of storytelling, and we believe these stories will resonate with audiences everywhere, shining a spotlight on the unique strength of Southeast Asian horror.' 'Delivery Man' is currently in production with a targeted release in early 2026. Kris Eiamsakulrat, co-founder of EST N8, which represents the film for worldwide sales, said: 'At EST N8, we champion stories that reveal the raw truth and reality of modern life across Asia. 'Delivery Man' is a gripping portrait of obsession and isolation that's rooted deeply in Thailand's youth culture today, yet with a strikingly universal message. We're proud to partner with creators who push boundaries and bring Southeast Asia's most daring and resonant stories to global audiences.' Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week Emmy Predictions: Talk/Scripted Variety Series - The Variety Categories Are Still a Mess; Netflix, Dropout, and 'Hot Ones' Stir Up Buzz Oscars Predictions 2026: 'Sinners' Becomes Early Contender Ahead of Cannes Film Festival
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
In just under 24 hours, teaser for Monsta's ‘Papa Zola: The Movie' amasses two million views across platforms
KUALA LUMPUR, May 2 — The teaser for the anticipated animation film Papa Zola: The Movie has quickly gained traction, amassing over 2 million views across digital platforms in under 24 hours. A collaboration between Monsta – the acclaimed studio behind Malaysia's box office animated hits BoBoiBoy and Mechamato – and local production house Astro Shaw, the film is targeted for release in December 2025, just in time for the year-end holiday season. 'This is Papa Zola's third appearance on the silver screen after BoBoiBoy The Movie (2016) and BoBoiBoy Movie 2 (2019), but his first as the leading star,' said director Nizam Razak in a statement. 'Papa Zola has always resonated deeply with audiences from all walks of life, both in Malaysia and Indonesia. 'This movie will reveal his origin story and highlight his unique blend of comedy, action, and warmth, making it perfect for the whole family,' he added. The character Papa Zola first appeared in Season 1 of BoBoiBoy as a video game character within the show's universe, later taking on the role of a teacher at BoBoiBoy's school. He quickly became a fan favourite with his catchphrase 'Kebenaran!' and comedic antics, and has since become an internet icon through viral memes, family-focused advice, and skits that have amassed over 3 billion views. The upcoming film promises a mix of action, humour, and heart, wrapped in a thrilling, gamified invasion storyline with strong themes of family and heroism. Fans can expect more details about the film in the coming months, including its official release date.
