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Adrian Teh brings magic and heist together in new thriller ‘Magik Rompak’
An audacious plot filled with intrigue and daring
Malaysian director Adrian Teh has begun filming “Magik Rompak”, a high-stakes heist thriller that promises to mesmerize audiences with its blend of magic, suspense, and drama. In this cinematic spectacle, a skilled magician assembles a reluctant yet talented crew to undertake a daring heist to steal a precious gem. As their pasts intertwine, the stakes escalate, challenging the team to master the art of illusion and confront their vulnerabilities.
Exploring the art of illusion in heist films
The concept of infusing magic into a heist narrative brings a fresh twist to the genre. The crew’s journey in “Magik Rompak” isn’t just about the logistics of a heist, but the psychological and emotional depth required to pull off such a feat. Adrian Teh’s direction aims to delve deep into the characters’ psyches, showcasing not just the high-tech wizardry of the theft, but also the personal battles each member faces. This dual-layered storytelling is expected to elevate the film, providing a richer experience for viewers.
A collaborative effort
Co-produced by ACT 2 Pictures from Malaysia and Clover Films from Singapore, “Magik Rompak” stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of Southeast Asian cinema. The executive producers include May Woo of ACT 2, Paulyn Chua, and Lim Teck of Clover Films. The movie is budgeted at $3 million (RM13 million) and began production on November 9. It will be shot entirely in Malaysia over a span of 50 days, with significant portions filmed at the picturesque Iskandar Malaysia Studios in Johor.
Clover Films will handle international sales, ensuring the movie reaches a global audience, while GSC will manage theatrical distribution in Malaysia. For Singaporean audiences, Clover and GV will oversee the distribution.
The power of visual effects
To achieve the sophisticated visual magic essential to the film, WOWFX Studios from Singapore has been brought on board. Known for their exceptional work in digital effects, WOWFX Studios will play a crucial role in crafting the film’s intricate magical sequences, ensuring they are both believable and breathtaking.
Spotlight on the star-studded cast
Leading the ensemble cast is Sharnaaz Ahmad, known for his role in “Polis Evo 3”, alongside Zul Ariffin from “Sheriff”, Miller Khan from “The Bridge”, and Fabian Loo from the series “Fly By Night”. These actors bring a wealth of experience and depth to their roles, with their performances expected to add significant weight to the narrative.
The film also features Amelia Henderson from “Pulau”, Yasmin Hani from “Gold”, and Elvina Mohamad from “Zombitopia”. They introduce complex female characters who add layers of intrigue and richness to the story. Veteran Singaporean actor Tay Ping Hui, best known for “Legend Of The Condor Heroes”, adds gravitas to the production, enhancing its appeal.
Understanding the local box office giants
Sharnaaz Ahmad has a track record of success, having starred in “Polis Evo 3”, which was the top-grossing local movie in 2023, raking in RM54 million ($12.3 million) at the box office. Similarly, Zul Ariffin made waves with “Sheriff”, which collected RM62 million ($14.1 million) this year. Their inclusion in “Magik Rompak” not only promises strong performances but also brings their substantial fan base into the theater.
A director’s vision: Bridging magic and heist
Adrian Teh, CEO of ACT 2 Pictures and the film’s director, is keen on offering audiences an entirely unique cinematic experience. He describes the fusion of magic and heist elements as invigorating, laden with plot twists and captivating magic sequences. Teh is experimenting with innovative filming equipment, aiming to craft visual spectacles that will astound viewers.
A legacy of collaboration
For Lim Teck of Clover Films, “Magik Rompak” marks the 13th collaboration with Adrian Teh. Teck praises Teh for his growth as one of Malaysia’s top directors, highlighting his clear vision for creating high-quality, commercially driven movies that resonate with audiences. This ongoing partnership aims to deliver another successful project that will captivate and entertain.
Conclusion
“Magik Rompak” promises to be an exhilarating journey filled with magic, suspense, and emotional depth. With a star-studded cast, cutting-edge visual effects, and a visionary director at the helm, this film is set to redefine the heist genre. Stay tuned for more updates on its progress and release.
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