OVER 100 FILMS COMPETING AT 33RD MALAYSIA FILM FESTIVAL THIS SATURDAY

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 4 (Bernama) -- Over 100 films will compete in 24 categories at the 33rd Malaysia Film Festival (FFM33) this Saturday.

National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) chief executive officer, Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, said FFM33 reintroduces the Best Documentary category this year after recognising documentaries as an integral part of the ecosystem for the development of local films and content.

"We have also observed the achievements of local filmmakers and the impressive quality of documentary production, particularly in the Asian region," he said while appearing on Bernama TV's Apa Khabar Malaysia programme today.

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Regarding FINAS' role in ensuring the relevance of FFM, he said the organisation faces challenges in addressing changes in audience behaviour, as today's viewers are less inclined to watch films in cinemas, preferring television or gadgets instead, adding that the challenge also lies in attracting the public to watch local films.

"…there are many platforms and content out there, but how do we ensure that local films remain close to the hearts of viewers in Malaysia? That's the challenge. This is where FFM comes in – to reignite that spirit and capture the audience's interest.

"For example, this year we have films like Sheriff, which has become a box office hit, the Tamil-language film C4 Cinta, which has earned over RM2 million, and Kahar: Kapla High Council, which grossed over RM4 million in just four days... it's clear that audiences are returning to watch local films. This is what we want, and we celebrate this success through FFM," he said.

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Seven films have been shortlisted for the Best Film category: Hungry Ghost Diner by Kinovisuals, Abang Adik (More Entertainment), Rain Town (Current Pictures), Sheriff (Skop Productions & Astro Shaw), Imaginur (Lumatic Films), Mechamato Movie (Animonsta Studios), and Duan Nago Bogho (Kalamariff Holdings).

Azmir Saifuddin added unlike previous festivals, the panel of judges, who have thoroughly evaluated the competing works this year, will also be allowed to provide commentary after the award night.

"This is because the jury will bring prestige to the evening, and we will allow them to give their reviews after the awards night. At every festival, the judging aspect is the 'anchor' – and we want to take FFM to greater heights in the future," he said.

Themed EMAS – Evolusi Sinema Malaysia FFM33 recognises the excellence of local films and celebrates the creative talents in the country.

The event will be broadcast live on RTM TV2 at 8.30 pm from Auditorium Seri Angkasa, Angkasapuri Media City.

-- BERNAMA