Latest news with #BloodBrothers'
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Time for more Malaysian films to be screened abroad
SYAFIQ Yusof has praised his father, Datuk Yusof Haslam, for his persistent efforts to screen their film, 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', in Southeast Asian countries. According to the 33-year-old filmmaker, it is high time for Malaysian films to reach broader regional audiences and move beyond traditional markets like Singapore and Brunei. "If we look at the film market in Malaysia, we operate an open market concept, allowing films from any country to enter, particularly those from Thailand and Indonesia," Syafiq told Harian Metro. "However, gaining entry for our films into other countries' markets can be different. What's important is that our local artistic work has been successful in Malaysia, and I am grateful for that. It is the success of this film that has given us the confidence to take 'Blood Brothers' abroad to several Southeast Asian countries," he added. Syafiq believes there is nothing wrong with attempting to introduce Malaysian films to foreign markets, regardless of the outcome. He said that the decision taken by Skop Productions, his father's company, is the correct one. The film, co-directed by Syafiq and Abhilash Chandra, premiered in Cambodian cinemas on May 27. It will then be released in Thailand in June, followed by Vietnam and Indonesia. "My hope is that this film will continue to be well-received by international audiences," he said. Beyond its Malaysian release, 'Blood Brothers' is also being screened in Singapore and Brunei.
New Straits Times
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Big hits from 'Blood Brothers' to 'Ejen Ali' sequel
THE action film 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', directed by Syafiq Yusof and Abhilash Chandra, is making a significant impact, both in cinemas and through its highly successful nationwide tour. 'Blood Brothers' has demonstrated the power of local productions, marking a new chapter in Malaysian film history. The popular movie has already collected over RM70 million at the box office after just 25 days of screenings. The film's tour stops have also been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, turning shopping malls and cinemas into vibrant hubs where fans have shown their support with continuous applause and cheers. This level of audience engagement is unprecedented for a Malaysian film in recent memory, highlighting the extraordinary appeal of 'Blood Brothers' and solidifying its position as a standout film of the year. Beyond the tour, 'Blood Brothers' has also taken social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram by storm, with fans sharing their experiences, from meeting the cast to reacting to the film's thrilling scenes, often accompanied by the hashtag #SapotLokal to express their support. The Bara Naga tour, which recently concluded in Terengganu and Pahang, was met with a warm reception from fans eager to meet their favourite actors. Meanwhile, 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for Primeworks Studios. Following the success of 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', the studio is set to release the animated film 'Ejen Ali The Movie 2' this month. Building on the success of its predecessor, 'Ejen Ali The Movie 2' aims to elevate the standard of animated films, promising enhanced production quality, a more mature storyline, and stunning visuals. Despite facing competition from both local and international films, 'Ejen Ali The Movie 2' is poised to make its mark in cinemas. With three major releases this year, including the hilarious adventure film '6 Jilake', directed by Aziz M. Osman, Primeworks Studios reaffirms its commitment to producing high-quality content and driving the growth of the local entertainment industry.
The Star
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
After the stupendous success of 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', this year's local biggie, get ready for 'Part 2: Perang Naga'
Local production 'Blood Brothers' is a runaway hit and is leading the pack in the Malaysian movie scene this year. It has already collected around RM55 million after almost three weeks of release with its engrossing story-line and fast-paced action. Locals fans are going wild with the movie that is seen is the same class of top local production such as 'Police Evo 3' and 'Sheriff: Narko Integriti'. But here's come the bigger 'biggie' news. The fans have not got enough of it, and the engrossing tale of brotherhood among bodyguards in the world of mafia is just not over yet. The movie directed by Abhilash Chandra and Syafiq Yusof, will continue in 'Blood Brothers, Part 2: Perang Naga'. This was confirmed by Abhilash during a fans-press meet event at GSC Nu Sentral in Brickfields. Besides Abhilash actors who played pivotal role in the movies such as Irfan Zaini, Andy Teh and Syazwan Zulkifli also attended the event. "It has been a fantastic ride. We just want to keep it going. We thank Malaysian fans for their fantastic support. The movie was led by some very dedicated actors and actresses, and we (the production) thank them all for their hard work," said Abhilash, who also added most of the main cast will be retained for the sequel. "I also like to thank Syafiq for allowing me to work with him in this movie. It is my first take as a director in a major production, and thank god it has turned out to a brilliant effort. I'm thankful Syafiq had the confidence in me to do the job with him." Both Abhilash and Syafiq are also no stranger to each other having worked with each on many different occasions in the past. In fact, while Abhilash is new to the director's chair, he, however, has worked in many other capacities in local big production movies. He was also the chief writer for top hits such as 'Polis Evo 3' and 'The Experts' and was the executive producer for 'Police Evo 2'. Besides Syafiq, Abhilash also paid tribute to Joel Soh, another top local movie producer and director, who led the line for the 'Police Evo' series. "I learnt much from Joel. He is the man who gave me the impetus to go far in this career line. It has always been my dream to be a director for movies. I could not ask for a better start and at the same time experience work with some super excellence teachers in the Malaysian movie scene," said Abhilash, who had first cut his moves in directing short films and advertisements. "It has been a challenging and exciting career path. I love every part of it and I hope I keep achieving something new in my career in the near future." Fans meeting some of the actors of the movie at Nu Sentral on April 29. For the Record The movie is further heated up with the excellent rock ballad 'Bara Jiwa' sung by Azlan Typewriter and Muzza Velvettones. Ever since the song was officially announced as the theme-song for the action thriller -- 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga' -- 'Bara Jiwa' is now a big favourite with the music fans in the country. The song "Bara Jiwa" also ignites the spirit with its poetic lyrics and deep, moving music, perfectly blending with the film's intense emotions and dramatic action. In less than three weeks since its release, including early screenings, Syafiq's latest action thriller, 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', has collected a remarkable RM55 million at the local box office. This marks his third movie to gross above the RM50 million threshold, following Polis Evo 3 (RM50.1 million) and Sheriff: Narko Integriti (RM59 million). It also marked the official entry of Abhilash as leading director in the country. According to Singaporean film distributor Golden Village Pictures, the film has also collected over S$800,000 (RM2.8 million) at the Singapore box office after two weeks of screening. Starring a stellar lineup of local talents – Sharnaaz Ahmad, Syafiq Kyle, Shukri Yahaya, Amelia Henderson, and many more – the film delves into the world of elite bodyguards, filled with betrayal, battles, and the testing of brotherhood bonds. A Story That Burns Bright – Revenge, Brotherhood & Sacrifice: The film follows Ariff (Syafiq Kyle), a bodyguard who is framed and forced to seek the help of his long-lost brother, Jaki (Syazwan Zulkifly). Hunted by his own former best friend and 'big brother', Ghaz (Sharnaaz Ahmad) – the leader of the elite bodyguard team once called the "Blood Brothers" – Ariff becomes entangled in an emotional and soul-shaking war of betrayal in his search for truth. While gangster movies are a staple diet in the Malaysian movie scene, this certain just over two-hour movie stands out due to its engrossing storyline and fine performances of all the actors and actresses involved. The incredible chemistry between Syafiq and Ghaz just carries the movie throughout the show. Fans meeting the actors at the event in Nu Sentral. Delighted Fans At a the fans meet in Nu Sentral, many said they were hoping for more from the entire cast. "What a movie. It is also just wonderful that it also showcased actors and actresses from all races. This movie is a show that has united this country. Malay, Chinese and Indians, we all love this movie," said a fan who wanted to be known as 'Sheila'. For the record, the 'Blood Brothers Fan Meet and Show' in Nu Sentral was organised by Malaysia Ajith Fan Club, Vijay Fan Official Squad and also Malaysia Sivakarthikeyan Fan Club. "This movie unites all races. More such movies should be made. Such moves also pushes the image of the country in th einternational cene," said another fan named Dev. Abhilash also promised make more of such movies. "Art unites all. And actors of all races have shown their promise time and again. Together, we can push Malaysian movies to great heights," Abhilash said. And for the Malaysian fans, they will be waiting for more excellent, engrossing plotlines and first-class slick action moves from Abhilash and Syafiq's take on the world of brotherhood, mafia and special security bodyguards.
The Star
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
'Bara Jiwa' by rock duo Azlan and Muzza is now a fan favourite after being selected as theme song for runaway hit movie 'Blood Brothers'
Local production 'Blood Brothers' is a runaway hit and is leading the pack in the Malaysian movie scene. And the movie is further heated with the incredible rock ballad 'Bara Jiwa' sung by Azlan Typewriter and Muzza Velvettones. Ever since the song was officially announced as the theme-song for the action thriller 'Blood Brothers: Bara Naga', directed by Abhilash Chandra and Syafiq Yusof, 'Bara Jiwa' is now a big favourite with the music fans in the country. Starring a stellar lineup of local talents – Sharnaaz Ahmad, Syafiq Kyle, Shukri Yahaya, Amelia Henderson, and many more – the film delves into the world of elite bodyguards, filled with betrayal, battles, and the testing of brotherhood bonds. "Bara Jiwa" ignites the spirit with its poetic lyrics and deep, moving music, perfectly blending with the film's intense emotions and dramatic action. A Story That Burns Bright – Revenge, Brotherhood & Sacrifice: The film follows Ariff (Syafiq Kyle), a bodyguard who is framed and forced to seek the help of his long-lost brother, Jaki (Syazwan Zulkifly). Hunted by his own former best friend, Ghaz (Sharnaaz Ahmad) – the leader of the elite bodyguard team once called the "Blood Brothers" – Ariff becomes entangled in an emotional and soul-shaking war of betrayal. Aligned with this narrative, "Bara Jiwa" emerges as the inner voice of these characters, blazing with spirit, honor, and vengeance. The chorus of the song, like 'Bara… Jiwa… Menyala…' ('Embers... Soul... Burning...'), echoes the unwavering spirit of those tested by broken trust. Buzz on TikTok – 1.6 Million Views and Counting: "Bara Jiwa" has sparked a phenomenon on social media, amassing over 1.6 million views on TikTok in the first week alone. Its growing popularity highlights the warm reception from fans who have been sharing their epic moments with the song. Now Available on All Streaming Platforms: "Bara Jiwa" is now available for streaming across all major digital platforms. The official lyric video, featuring exclusive footage from Blood Brothers: Bara Naga, was launched on March 14. Song: Bara Jiwa Artists: Azlan Typewriter & Muzza's Velvettones Composer and Lyricist: Muzza Producer: Muzza & Johan John Music Production: Muzza Music Entertainment
Yahoo
27-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Linda Nolan's funeral will take place at the church where she got married - and fans are invited
Linda Nolan's funeral will take place at the church where she got married. The former Nolans singer - who was married to Brian Hudson from 1981 until his death in 2007 - passed away at the age of 65 on 15 January following a long battle with cancer and now her sisters have invited fans to attend her memorial service at St. Paul's Church in Blackpool to pay their respects. The Nolans wrote on their official Instagram page on Monday (27.01.25) morning: "The Nolan family invites everyone to join them in celebrating the extraordinary life of Linda Nolan, who passed away peacefully on 15th January 2025. "Linda was a beacon of light, strength and unwavering love who inspired everyone she met, in addition to millions around the world. Her absence leaves an ache in our hearts, but her legacy will live on through the joy, hope and kindness she shared so freely. "Linda's funeral service will take place on Saturday, 1st February 2025, at St. Paul's Church, Honister Avenue, Blackpool, at 10:30 am. "Everyone who knew Linda, or whose lives she touched, are welcome to come and pay their respects as we remember her remarkable life. Fans and public are welcome to gather outside the church for the funeral - and in true Linda spirit, the more the merrier! "St. Paul's Church holds a deeply special place in Linda's heart. It is where she married the love of her life, Brian Hudson, with whom she shared 26 wonderful years of marriage. Brian was Linda's rock, her soulmate, and the love of her life, just as she was his." The post described how the Linda managed to "carry on" following the death of her husband - who passed away as a result skin cancer and liver failure - and now the sisters are hoping to "reunite" her with Brian almost 20 years after his own funeral. It continued: "When Brian tragically passed away in 2007, Linda found the strength to carry on, but her love for him never wavered. St. Paul's was also where Linda said her final goodbye to Brian, holding his funeral in the same church where they had exchanged their vows. Now, Linda will return to this sacred place to be reunited with Brian once more, finally at peace and back in his loving embrace." The family is also raising money for Trinity Hospice, and have encouraged fans to give what they can via a link on their social media. Linda was an original member of The Nolans in the 1970s when they were known as The Nolan Sisters alongside Anne Nolan, Maureen Nolan, Bernie Nolan - who died of cancer in 2013 at the age of 52 - and Denise Nolan before their younger sister Coleen Nolan joined in 1979. They became known for their hit single 'I'm In The Mood For Dancing', before Linda went on to carve out a stellar career in West End theatre and played the leading role of Mrs Johnstone in 'Blood Brothers' for a number of years. Around various reunions with her sisters, Linda appeared on 'Celebrity Big Brother' and occasionally joined Coleen as a panellist on 'Loose Women'. The new post concluded: "Linda was more than a beloved sister, friend, and entertainer - she was a symbol of hope, humour and resilience."
