Local films fail internationally due to missing blockbuster 'element'

A LACK of 'blockbuster' element has been singled out as the reason behind the failure of locally-produced films to penetrate the international market.
Film Directors Association of Malaysia (FDAM) vice-president Syed Zulkifli Syed Masir said despite the fact that many films garnered successful ticket sales, they still failed to attract foreign viewers, especially those from the neighbouring Asean region.
He said local films paled in comparison with movies from countries, namely Thailand and Indonesia, which were well-received when screened in local cinemas.
Our films also often failed to make it in the 'Top 10' annual blockbuster list, in contrast to the industrial scenario in Thailand and Indonesia where locally-produced films dominated the charts.
"Hence, we at FDAM conducted a study on international box office films to find elements that couldn't be found in the local productions. From there, we also decided to produce an experimental feature film titled, Hijabista Ballet," he told Bernama.
He was met after attending the first hour's screening of the film at the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology in Cyberjaya here recently.
Syed Zulkifli, better known as Syed Zul Tojo, said the movie was his first feature length effort which combined different elements identified in the 'blockbuster' movies found in the study.
He said the study found 51 'blockbuster' elements missing in local productions.
"In producing Hijabista Ballet, we apply out-of-the-box storytelling in our attempt to combine two different worlds – wearing hijab and performing ballet.
"We also emphasise on the strength of the storyline, as well as the filming 'angle' as it will help the audience to better understand the story," he added.
The 120-minute movie tells the story of Adele, a teenager who wants to pursue her passion in ballet despite wearing hijab.
Her determination draws in fierce opposition from her family, local community and religious figures that she decided to emigrate to Australia.
With cast lists including Aida Khalida, Betty Banafe, Aman Graseka and young actress Puteh Maimun Zahra as Adele, the movie is scheduled for an early 2017 release.
Syed Zulkifli said as the movie touched on religious sensitivities, it was first referred to the Malaysian Islamic Development Department and Institute of Islamic Strategic Research Malaysia for guidelines. — Bernama