Southeast Asian myth meets Taiwanese charm in new horror-comedy series

A new twist on vampire folklore

In a fascinating blend of Southeast Asian folklore and Taiwanese culture, the mini-series “Pontianaks in Taiwan” is currently in development and creating a buzz at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest (TCCF). The show promises to take viewers on a thrilling ride as it follows two extraordinary undead beings across Taiwan.

The journey of the Pontianaks

At the heart of the series are two Pontianaks—bloodthirsty female vampires from Malay folklore—who embark on a journey from Singapore to Taiwan in search of a new sanctuary. This unique concept is brought to life by the talented creator, co-writer, executive producer, and director, who sought inspiration from classic Hong Kong horror-comedies like the iconic Mr. Vampire.

Cultural narratives and folkloric fusion

The show’s creator reveals a deep passion for local and regional folktales, elements that often remain underrepresented on the global stage. “Growing up surrounded by these stories, I’ve long wanted to share their magic with the world. This series is an ode to our folklore, enriched with a cross-cultural narrative,” they explain.

Themes of immigration and belonging

One of the central themes of “Pontianaks in Taiwan” is immigration and the search for belonging. The characters’ quest for a new home echoes the universal question, “What is home?” The series delves into the challenges faced by the modern generation as they navigate the complexities of immigration and settling into new environments. This insightful perspective is further expanded upon by the executive producer and co-writer, who notes, “It’s a theme that resonates with many today, making it both relevant and emotionally compelling.”

Taiwanese perspectives and comedic potential

Adding depth to the production is a producer and writer who brings her unique Taiwanese perspective to the series. She sees immense comedic potential in placing these supernatural beings in Taiwanese settings and situations. “Comedy and cross-cultural narratives are close to my heart. I can’t wait for audiences to see the hilarity and chaos that ensues,” she shares.

Bridging cultures through language

One of the most intriguing aspects of the series is its linguistic diversity. Featuring two actresses of Malay ethnicity speaking in Mandarin, the show aims to celebrate cultural interchange and enrich its cross-cultural appeal. This decision not only highlights the show’s commitment to authenticity but also adds a unique layer of complexity to the narrative.

Production timeline and expectations

The production team has laid out an ambitious timeline, with script development and financing set to begin in 2025. Filming is scheduled for the second quarter of 2026, and the team hopes to release the series in the first quarter of 2027. These milestones speak to the meticulous planning and dedication behind bringing this unique project to fruition.

Notable figures behind the project

The project boasts a powerhouse team with a rich legacy in the film industry. The director is an award-winning filmmaker with over two decades of experience in Singapore’s media scene. Notable works include the feature film Repossession, which garnered multiple awards upon release.

Equally impressive are the credentials of the co-writer, who has co-created and head-written various successful projects. Among his achievements are an International Emmy nomination and the creation of popular series like Therapy Z.

Lastly, the production benefits from the insights of a producer renowned for spotlighting stories with strong female protagonists. Her illustrious career includes numerous Golden Bell-winning productions, underscoring her expertise and passion for impactful storytelling.

Enriching global storytelling

“Pontianaks in Taiwan” is positioned to be a landmark series that effortlessly blends folklore, horror, comedy, and cultural narratives. By integrating Southeast Asian legends into a Taiwanese context, the series promises to offer audiences a novel viewing experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

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