Latest news with #AstroShaw
Hype Malaysia
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
Netizens Discuss 'Disappointing' Box Office Performance Of Local Superhero Film 'Keluang Man'
The crime-fighting, almost mentally deranged Malaysian superhero, 'Keluang Man', has piqued nationwide interest with its all-out marketing, playing into the hype of superhero movies such as Thunderbolts and Superman. The idea of mixing Batman into a Malaysian concoction of a superhero could very well be a recipe for success, but would it reflect on the box office stats? With three weeks in, Astro Shaw's 'Keluang Man' had reportedly collected a RM2.4 million gross in the last 18 days of showing. The chart prepared by FINAS lines up the list of Malaysian movies, including the likes of 'Ejen Ali The Movie 2: Misi Satria' and 'Gayong'. According to reports, the production and marketing costs of the film amounted to RM13 million. Despite being under the Compulsory Screen Scheme and produced by a mega film company, Astro Shaw, the performance of the movie proved to be far from expectations. Reports also state that the movie had only attracted up to 141,000 viewers since its premiere on 29th May 2025. Astro Shaw Head, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, explains that despite its low viewership, the main focus of the movie is not solely to collect figures but is about paving a new direction for Malaysian films. 'For us, this project is an effort to open a new path for local superhero films. 'Keluang Man' is not just a collection, but about a new direction', he adds. Netizens were more than quick to chime in on why the reception was low, linking it to unsuitable premiere dates and lack of interest from younger generations. Twitter user @/duniainiboneka comments, 'Generational gap. Gen Z and Gen Alpha don't care about 'Keluang Man'. They should have created an animation first to slowly introduce the concept to the new generation'. Another Twitter user @/al_harith comments, 'Ejen Ali's premiere timing was really good as it was during the school break. Mom and dads don't really care if the movie isn't good, as long as the kids have fun'. A quick search on today's reports from FINAS on the 'Keluang Man' grossing shows that the film has gained over 1.3 million in a day, with a gross of RM3.8 million as of 19th June 2025. Could this be a step toward turning the tide for our Malaysian superhero? Source: Kosmo!, Twitter Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Astro Shaw says no decision yet on Naim Daniel as Tiong Man
19 June - Despite speculations about Naim Daniel playing Tiong Man, the sidekick of the '90s animated superhero Keluang Man, Astro Shaw has denied ever making any decision regarding the casting. Head of Astro Shaw and "Keluang Man" executive producer, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad recently responded to questions about Naim's involvement, saying that they will only make an announcement when there are actual confirmations. "So Naim Daniel is not Tiong Man. Not at this moment," she said. Raja Jastina also stated that the "Keluang Man" creative team is still working on the storyline and characters that will appear in the sequel to the film. "What you see in the movie Keluang Man is not necessarily what you think. Anything can happen. You have to wait and see what happens next," she explained. Speculations about Naim playing the said sidekick sparked after he appeared in several scenes in the movie. It was further fuelled by the actor sharing a photo of him with the Keluang Man logo, which he captioned with a bird and wind emoji. Many took it as him confirming that he will be playing Tiong Man, whose name is the Malay word for the mynah bird. The issue as to whether Naim will play the role in the next instalment or not sparked after the singer-actor was charged with sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl. He has pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court recently. (Photo Source: Cinema Online, Naim Daniel IG)
Malay Mail
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Malaysia's original superhero returns: Astro Shaw unveils next phase of ‘Keluang Man' franchise with ‘Baling' film, new live-action series
KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — It has been several weeks since the May 29 nationwide release of the much-anticipated live-action film featuring Malaysia's original superhero, Keluang Man. Since its debut, the majority of Malaysians have shown great appreciation for the film, with many praising its nostalgic '90s vibe and the distinctly Malaysian soundtrack woven throughout. However, the most widespread acclaim has undoubtedly gone to the lead actor Nas Muammar Zar (Nas-T) for his performance as Borhan, also known as Keluang Man, as his portrayal of the character and unique acting style have been especially well received. While the film has received praise, it has also raised questions about the future of the Keluang Man franchise and the broader Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe (ASCU), which was announced last year. Questions remain about the future development of the concept, in addition to what lies ahead for the Keluang Man franchise. Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, head of Astro Shaw, said that the Keluang Man franchise universe will continue with the film Baling, to be showcased next in the universe. 'While Keluang Man was based on the original 90s animation by Kamn Ismail, Baling will draw from a folklore that many Malaysians may find familiar. 'It will incorporate elements of a Malaysian story that audiences might recognise,' she said, adding, 'It is going to be darker than Keluang Man.' Raja Jastina Raja Arshad stated the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe will continue as planned. — Picture by Choo Choy May As for the Keluang Man films, the sequel will still move forward, but before the planned sequel, a live-action Keluang Man series will be released. 'It's not a continuation; it's something fresh, though the character of Borhan will still be there. "This is the next stage of Keluang Man, and it's slightly different from how we're approaching the next chapter of Keluang Man, which will be presented as an original series," said Jastina. The story is currently in development, but director Answari Ashraf will return to take the lead for the series. The release is tentatively planned for late next year or early the following year, though no official date has been set. Regarding the future of the whole ASCU, Jastina confirmed that it is still moving forward, where characters under Astro Shaw will come together in an ultimate convergence film in 2028. 'There are no changes in terms of what we're planning to deliver. It's just that we might add a few things or move some elements forward.'
Free Malaysia Today
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Free Malaysia Today
Go batty with the zany adventures of ‘Keluang Man'
Keluang Man (Nas-T) is certainly all fired up to get revenge on his brother. (Astro Shaw pic) PETALING JAYA : Look, up in the sky! Is it a bat? Is it a wau?! No, it's Keluang Man, making his way to the silver screen at long last! Blockbuster superhero films have been the rage over the last decade, so it was only a matter of time that this beloved Malaysian superhero got his own cinematic adventure. 'Keluang Man' is a largely faithful live-action adaptation of the 1990s cartoon series produced by UAS Animation Studio. Its serious and silly elements sometimes clash but, overall, it's a fun superhero adventure. The big-screen version is produced by Astro Shaw and marks the directorial debut of Anwari Ashraf, the writer of hits such as the 'Polis Evo' trilogy and 'Project: High Council'. In the film, Borhan (Nas-T), a patient at the Tampoi Psychiatric Centre in Kluang, spends his days arguing with other inmates and undergoing sessions with the beautiful and intelligent Dr Malini (Shweta Sekhon). Borhan hears voices in his head – more precisely, just one voice: that of iconic actor and radio announcer Halim Othman. When a chance encounter triggers memories of Borhan's dramatic past, which involves a betrayal by his once-trusted brother Shamsir (Remy Ishak), Borhan becomes eager for revenge. Fortunately, his psychiatric facility has the lowest level of security ever, allowing him to leave regularly for his crusade of justice as the masked vigilante Keluang Man; while the grizzled Inspector Sahab (Anwaar Beg Moghal) – who happens to be Dr Malini's brother – is hot on his trail. Shweta Sekhon plays the intelligent Dr Malini, who forms a bond with Borhan. (Astro Shaw pic) At first glance, this stylish superhero seems to be a local version of Batman. But this is a different story, as the film will remind you numerous times. A wisecracking misfit with the ability to break the fourth wall? Keluang Man has just as much in common with Deadpool as he does the Dark Knight! Acting-wise, the performers are decent, with Rosyam Nor as Borhan's old mentor Ahmad being particularly noteworthy. That said, Halim Othman's voice acting is the most outstanding of the lot! Much like its eponymous character, however, 'Keluang Man' suffers from a bit of an identity crisis. The film wants to be a serious superhero story and a parody of the genre at the same time, and the rapid shifts in tone can be quite disorienting. The movie is at its funniest when making humorous observations of Malaysian culture, or taking little jabs at other superhero movies. It does attempt to explore themes such as family, identity and revenge, but this feels mostly perfunctory, existing mainly to tie the action and comedy scenes together. Apart from fighting crime, Keluang Man has time to pursue his little art projects. (Astro Shaw pic) The fight scenes are executed well, especially during the climactic clash set in a pillow factory. Alas, while entertaining, this sequence drags on a bit and feels melodramatic, flying in the face of the film's generally humorous vibe. 'Keluang Man' does have a killer soundtrack, which features many throwback hits from the 2000s. Fans will also appreciate numerous references to the original animated series sprinkled through the story. Minor gripes aside, this is a fun superhero comedy, a popcorn flick with lots of local flavour. Importantly, it seems to have been made with love and as a tribute to longtime fans, which is commendable in and of itself. This is also the first entry in the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe, which suggests the character will return soon. Hopefully Borhan will have more interesting adventures to come: who knows, he might even cross paths with a Marvel superhero some day! 'Keluang Man' starts screening in local cinemas from tomorrow.
Hype Malaysia
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
7,000 Fans Unite For 'Keluang Man'-Themed Run Event In KL In Anticipation Of Upcoming Film
Malaysia's most anticipated superhero action movie, 'Keluang Man', is set to take over cinemas nationwide starting 29th May 2025! Produced by Astro Shaw, 'Keluang Man' marks the inception of the Astro Shaw Cinematic Universe. As part of the larger promotional campaign leading up to the highly anticipated superhero film, Astro Shaw teamed up with key partners to roll out a series of exciting collaborations. These collabs included the Wonda Kopi Kluang limited-edition collection with Wonda Coffee, the Wonda-ful 'Keluang Man' Burger in partnership with myBurgerLab, the exclusive 'Keluang Man' Premium Collection by Royal Selangor, and of course, the highlight—the 'Keluang Man' WONDA Fun Run. Speaking of which, here's what went down at the recent event: To build anticipation for the highly awaited live-action release of 'Keluang Man', Astro Shaw has launched an exhilarating, immersive experience with the 'Keluang Man WONDA Fun Run'—Malaysia's first-ever original superhero-themed run. This milestone event marked a groundbreaking collaboration between Keluang Man, Wonda Coffee, and Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), held in conjunction with the city's Car Free Morning programme. The run, making its debut on 18th May in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, drew more than 7,000 enthusiastic participants of all ages for a vibrant 5km course that began at Menara DBKL. The morning of event kicked off at 6:45 am with a dynamic warm-up session, followed by the official flag-off at 7:00 am, led by none other than Keluang Man himself, mascot BeBe, and a DBKL representative. Adding a fun twist, runners donned Keluang Man masks, while select lucky participants received limited-edition jerseys that added a collectable thrill to the experience. Elevating the atmosphere, fans were treated to star appearances by the film's cast, including Nas Muammar Zar, Datuk Rosyam Nor, Shweta Sekhon, Anwaar Beg Moghal, Sham Sunder, and Razzuan Rosli. The energy soared further with live performances from Krisya, the vocalist of the film's official theme song, and local rock powerhouse S.O.G. The 'Keluang Man WONDA Fun Run' successfully united fans, fitness enthusiasts, and film lovers in a celebration of homegrown superhero pride, setting the stage for what promises to be an epic cinematic launch. Did you participate in the run event? Have you checked out the other collaborations? Regardless, we're sure you're excited to watch 'Keluang Man' when it hits cinemas next week! Check out the trailer below:
