3 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Sofyank teams up with HK superstar Louis Koo in viral promo
KUALA LUMPUR: A surprise collaboration between Hong Kong screen legend Louis Koo and Malaysia's very own VFX prodigy Sofyank has taken local social media by storm, following the release of a promotional video for Koo's film Behind The Shadow.
The impressive 50-second spot racked up over a million views in just 12 hours, and for Sofyank, the experience was surreal.
"Louis is one of the first Hong Kong actors I've ever worked with. I grew up watching his movies — to now share the screen with him feels like a dream come true," shared Sofyank.
Despite Koo's packed schedule, the video shoot was completed in 20 minutes.
"He looked really serious at first, but he was incredibly down-to-earth. In fact, it was he who suggested some comedic moments — including the popcorn bit," added Sofyank.
The video features Sofyank walking through a cinema hallway holding popcorn, before accidentally bumping into a crowd and dropping it.
Koo "steps out" of a movie poster and hands him a fresh box — while dropping some Bahasa Malaysia lines in his Cantonese-accented voice: "Jom sapot!" (Let's support!).
Netizens praised their pairing as refreshing and heartwarming.
"We asked Louis if he'd be willing to try speaking in Malay, even though it's not a language he's familiar with — and he was totally up for it," said Sofyank.
Behind The Shadow was shot entirely in Malaysia, with a cast and crew of nearly 100 local talents.
Koo previously shared his admiration for Malaysia's film industry, noting its professionalism, quick pace and strong creative energy.
"I was impressed by how committed and responsive the Malaysian crew were. It was great to see how they handled spontaneous scenes so well," he said.
Sofyank said: "This film proves that it's not just Western studios, but also those in Asia, that now recognise Malaysia's potential. I hope to bring Malaysian creativity to the global stage. And I'm thrilled to see more international filmmakers acknowledging our local talent."
Behind The Shadow stars Koo as a detective entangled in a mysterious crime filled with suspense and unexpected turns.
The film is set in recognisable Malaysian locations — from bustling night markets and food courts to schools, pedestrian bridges and urban backstreets.
Behind The Shadow officially opens in cinemas today.
