About Me
There's been many articles regarding this matter and most of them tackles from a producer's perspective; of how this phenomenon is changing the industry and adding more revenue to big companies. Even though this is very important (And exciting, if you ask me), I'd like to tackle from a fan's perspective as it is more engaging; to remind myself that it's all about the audience.
World Building, to put it simply, is telling stories of characters (Through multiple protagonists) in one single universe. The best examples are DC comics and Marvel; before their recent movie franchises. In fact, it is because of these two companies that this phenomenon has become popular and favored among big movie companies. They've simply used their formula of marketing and storytelling with their comics and adapted it in the movie making business. It has even been used in Video games; another growing industry in recent years. In this article though, we'll be focusing more on Malaysia's IP's and you'd be surprised how local talents have creatively utilize this (Despite the negativity the industry is receiving from fans). More importantly, they were mostly done out of the spirit as fans, not as greedy and clueless producers.
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| The Cheesy-ness of this title card was intended...to reflect to franchise itself :p |
Though it was never confirmed if the director or even the producers had World Building in mind, the storytelling and marketing method was still similar as the characters from the first two would go on separate adventures (Facing other famous supernatural creatures) in Zombi Kilang Biskut and Husin, Mon dan Jin Pakai Toncit. It was even more apparent in Werewolf dari Bangladesh as it didn't starred the main character from past films. Instead it was another famous comedic character, Usop Wilcha, who met a werewolf from Bangladesh.
This is not the best example of World Building in Malaysia but I say it's worth mentioning as it is one of few successful (At least, financially) efforts in the local movie industry. It still caters to typical sequels; still relying on the same characters but with outrages genres that's inconsistent.
With excellent marketing and skillful storytelling, Les' Copaque has grown to be one of the most influential production company in Malaysia. You wanna know how big their Upin and Ipin has become? Imagine growing up in an Asian country but surrounded with Western characters like Mickey Mouse or Power Puff Girls on pre-school murals. As a kid, that's something normal at the time. Now, schools everywhere are filled with Upin Ipin and Boiboiboy murals! When you've reached to kid's hearts, that's when you know you've created something more than just an Intellectual Property.
While I think I should write more on Upin Ipin's skillful storytelling method that surpasses most live action films (Debatable, I know), I'll try my best to focus more on their World Building methods. Starting from the twins, the company has now expanded to two more shows; Pada Zaman Dahulu and the recent Puteri. But in between these stories, Les' Copaque has adapted the Easter Egg method (Mostly used in Pixar films, Marvel and Video Games) to (not only promote their shows) hint possible and subtle connections between shows. This is something that most film productions or producers in Malaysia don't understand, a method that diminishes the line between marketing and storytelling; making it more seamless and exciting. Yes, while the method has been criticized by some for it's hard selling ways, the method has been proved to be effective if done in the right amount and with heavy care towards the story. In fact, storytelling-wise, the Les' Copaque Universe (That should be a wikipedia page by itself there!) has hinted the possible existence of Ultraman! Malaysia's very own Ultraman and not a fan made one!
Being brutally honest, this could have been another huge marketing stunt but with half ass execution of the end product. Despite how far Malaysia has come with the marketing and event itself, never settle for less as you know Malaysia can do better. I'm passionately happy to say that Upin, Ipin adn Ultraman Ribut was awesome! Nodding to the very well established fans of the series in Malaysia while maintaining their credibility with their own stories.
To be more precise with Les' Copaque Universe, here's a quick explanation of possible facts based on the easter eggs.
Pada Zaman Dahulu is the story of Sang Kancil and his witty and mischievous adventures; told through Tok Aki as he gives advice to his two grandchildren, Ara and Aris. In the above still, Sang Kancil exists as a comic book and a TV show within Upin Ipin's universe.
However, in Ultraman Ribut special, it is hinted that Ara (And possibly the other human characters of Pada Zaman Dahulu) exists in Upin Ipin's world as well. To ad more speculation though, the ending of Ultraman Ribut's special ended with the twins dreaming of the event instead. However, they woke up by having the transformation device on their wrists. Confusing, no? But exciting nonetheless!
Even though Upin Ipin has grown to an establishment that's highly loved and creative, it's not enough as Malaysia needs more IP's and production companies that's up to date. Things are looking bright in the Animation Industry as Boiboiboy is releasing their first movie this year. Not to mention, their future projects in theme parks and collaboration with a Japanese company; Takara Tomy toys. It's unsure about the live action industry though as you can see, the example above isn't exactly the best. Malaysia is very far behind in marketing and, sadly, even storytelling. What's best to do now--next to producing more IP's--is supporting it hence the writing of this article.
Here's hoping for better days ahead; In Shaa Allah.
One of the best things about storytelling is that it invites you to empathize the character or plot; opening up ourselves and recall a similar emotion or predicament. For Papadom 2, directed by Afdlin Shauki, it was one of few local films that managed to make me open up myself; tearing up and being able to put myself in that situation. To be frank though, it was more to the director rather than the fictional characters. That statement has some critical weight to it in both positive and negative ways.
The opening scene is one of the most creative, thought provoking and comedic in recent years of local films (Maybe, the only one). Meant to be the ending of a film that's being filmed in the movie, the opening scene summarize Papadom 2's overall theme while at the same time expresses how the local industry is trying to film such genres. Opening scenes are very important as it establishes the genre, character, style, theme and even a hint of the character's needs. Local films has overlook this and went on to show a general 'explanation' or misleading opening scenes. The best example is the recent local movie, Cicakman 3. The film's opening scene--though I'm confident that wasn't the attention--was a bit, and unnecessarily, homophobic but it did established the villain well.
Commercial value?
While I detest quick cash grabs in films (Even in video games), I cannot deny the importance of audience's reaction. But this is not to be confused with sales and box office. The best stories are the ones that tries to communicate with their audience well; not trying to sugarcoat it or dumb-ing it down. Like a lecturer trying to teach her students, how well the students understand is how much consideration, knowledge, experience and passion is put into her material. Papadom 2 indirectly speaks to the people of the film industry (As what most local films do nowadays). But the center is family in general. Layers in stories compliment each other thus creating solid storytelling. Even though family values are, indeed, general, the film still caters to its critic to the industry. I believe the majority of the audience aren't able to relate to this because--well, they're not filmmakers nor do they ever care to be one in Malaysia (Considering how the masses see local films). This is the reality that I see as the film didn't do well at the box office and it's very disappointing. But this means something more to me, personally.
Great Script
I empathize more towards the director rather than the story itself which is, its in own right, an achievement itself for the film. I'm a film student and Papadom 2 tells the story of Malaysian filmmakers through Saadom's daughter. She's an assistant director to a very angry and nonsensical director. Through her, Saadom merely observes the hustle and bustle of a film set; much like the general audience! But why didn't it made it big in theaters?! Argghhhh!
*Clears throat* Sorry
All of the tiny details of the set; the work ethics, the mentality...all spoke to me very well because it's frightening to me, as a student, to know that I'm going to go through all of this. I believe there's no sugarcoated happy ending when it comes to the film making part but the film ended with what the director felt most important; family. And this is where it hit me, emotionally. Why I empathized more with the director is because I've been following his social network posts and his latest activities at the time. This reflected very well in this movie; sort of diminishing it's fictional nature and encouraging you to self reflect. That's a great achievement in storytelling.
Verdict
Papadom 2 put me into one of those self reflecting moments when one watches films; being in my list of favorite stories like Up, Brave, Legend of Aang, Legend of Korra, Walter Mitty and many more. Local titles are limited but its growing. Papadom 2 earns a solid 4/5 for it's honest storytelling and great script.
Have you read the exclusive fan's first review of Cicakman 3? Click here while it's still fresh!
Social commentary in Malaysian films have been very annoying lately. It seems like it's the only way they can make the film more critical or witty. But when I really think about it though, it's not the extensive use of social commentary that bugs me but, rather, the absence of substance. Terbaik dari Langit does have tons of subtle criticism towards the local film industry but it didn't forget the core essence of storytelling.
Character driven
I can finally say that I remember the character's name from a local movie. The industry still seems oblivious that it's characters that sell. Audiences find it more easy to identify themselves with the characters. Relatable characters are ones that make mistakes for reasons that the audiences can relate to. Berg, Ijam, Toyu and Ali had their own wants and goals; each affecting one another. The plot moves according to their respective individuality and not the writer's 'common sense'. Often times, the local industry writes stories based on cliches; pop culture, trends and common sense. They don't explore the complexity of what the story's substance can be. Redza Minhat, the writer, utilized the story's core; friendship. And with friendship, you have many individuals with respective desire and weaknesses. Sounds very basic but you'd be surprised how often this cannot be done.
Visually daring
Most local films are either undeveloped or shallow (Half ass or terrible is a more harsh way to put it). Terbaik dari Langit is one of few films that's innovative and manage to execute them well. Despite having friendship as it's theme, Nik Amir Mustapha (Director) managed to remind Malaysians that film is a visual medium. Often times, drama is--somewhat--of Malaysia's 'forte' and they are executed with heavy dialogues with uncalled for emotional blunder. Berg's hallucination scenes are tools to describe his point of view. This tool also had a pay-off at the ending; making it full circle and giving it a purpose instead of just simply using it. I also noticed the Hong Kong-esque settings in a few scenes; adding more depths visually.
State of the Malaysian film Industry
The story wittingly uses the plot as a tool to comment on the industry but not too much until it's the theme. Ironic though, the theme also complimented the commentary. Instead of leaving the criticism to mere cynicism, the friendship was the answer. Despite the hardships of the Berg and his friends filming, it's their friendship that matters most. People in the film industry can work as hard as they can but in the end, it's the substance that counts.
Verdict
Did I mentioned that the score and music were awesome? It just brought some familiar emotional ride when one watches a film. But this time, I was watching a local film. I just hope Astro Shaw will continue investing on films like this and give more opportunities to new talents. There's only so much that the current Industry people can do. While they figure out what the youngsters and even people their generation want, give the young people a shot too. Terbaik dari langit earns a 4/5!
Alhamdulillah, local films have been booming lately with promising possibilities for the future. Of course, audience will always compare local content with international ones (Especially with Hollywood) but, if you really look at these films within our country's film history...it's an achievement by itself.
So, this is, sort of, a two part review regarding recent local films. Each exploring local films in terms of Critically and Commercially. As you can see the poster above, I'll be reviewing Cicakman 3!
A franchise that has aged well
....so far
The first thing I noticed when watching through the 2nd act, the storytelling aspect is more mature; really focusing on the character and a theme that they were going for. Through my observation (and limited education in film making), there is a formula for telling a commercial story and it varies according to country, culture, economy, politics and many more. The formula, in a sense, is more or less the same in every country but Cicakman 3 follows Hollywood's narrative structure quite closely. But the story was a very, very, very safe.
Even the directing seems better as the scenes are controlled well; making sure that the mood and emotions of every scenes are apparent, relatable and powerful. The action scenes, however, needed some more work. Most actions were small scaled; no buildings or cities were destroyed. Though, to me, this is fine as long as the story is there but it could have been better if it was implemented in the climax scenes; nothing big...just give it some more stakes.
Yes, even the CGI has been improved. It still has some flaw in making the models and textures more photo realistic. But they finally understand that, like many other aspects of film making, CGI should support the theme and not become the center of attention. There were no gimmicky CGI scenes; scenes that don't rely on elaborate punchlines or an epic spectacle of fighting, explosions and so on.
Westernization
I mentioned that the film followed Hollywood's narrative structure. The decision could have brought better impact as the structure is universal; it's a matter of the story's pace (A very subjective opinion by the way). But Cicakman 3's basic tool for exploring its theme was an ideology that's more familiar in Western countries; having an underdog trope that utilizes symbolism of the human spirit. This is the fundamental ideology of most western movies nowadays. Of course, Malaysia has a firm ideology for itself; that's both unique and familiar with most Asian countries. This is a step backwards as we have our own strong beliefs and film--among many other mediums--is a powerful tool that can showcase it. How to do it? Well, I'm still learning and I think the industry is still learning as well. The Japanese creative industry is a great example for exploring how to express our culture in films. South Korea is also another great example as it's creative industry has been booming in recent years. Their films still have some American box office trope going on but they manage to balance it out with their own culture and ideology.
The Hero
Acting, as always, aren't my forte and I would usually accept whoever is presented (Unless he/she is really terrible). Zizan proves that he's not just a name for KRU Studios to use for gaining publicity. Fizz Fairuz did a swell job portraying the simple villain and Lisa Surihani delivered fairly well.
Kudos to the child actor who delivered a heavy role for a kid. What grabs the audience into the film is definitely the grounded story of family.
Watchable
Ouch, haha. Yes, Malaysians will be harsh with local films and I'm glad to say it's watchable. In fact, it's fairly comprehensive and not painfully shallow as most local films usually produce. The comedy hit its mark very well and the story really sticks inside of you. Funny how I mentioned the franchised has matured when in fact, the new Cicakman is a father. Oops, spoilers.
Westernization
I mentioned that the film followed Hollywood's narrative structure. The decision could have brought better impact as the structure is universal; it's a matter of the story's pace (A very subjective opinion by the way). But Cicakman 3's basic tool for exploring its theme was an ideology that's more familiar in Western countries; having an underdog trope that utilizes symbolism of the human spirit. This is the fundamental ideology of most western movies nowadays. Of course, Malaysia has a firm ideology for itself; that's both unique and familiar with most Asian countries. This is a step backwards as we have our own strong beliefs and film--among many other mediums--is a powerful tool that can showcase it. How to do it? Well, I'm still learning and I think the industry is still learning as well. The Japanese creative industry is a great example for exploring how to express our culture in films. South Korea is also another great example as it's creative industry has been booming in recent years. Their films still have some American box office trope going on but they manage to balance it out with their own culture and ideology.
The Hero
Acting, as always, aren't my forte and I would usually accept whoever is presented (Unless he/she is really terrible). Zizan proves that he's not just a name for KRU Studios to use for gaining publicity. Fizz Fairuz did a swell job portraying the simple villain and Lisa Surihani delivered fairly well.
Kudos to the child actor who delivered a heavy role for a kid. What grabs the audience into the film is definitely the grounded story of family.
Watchable
Ouch, haha. Yes, Malaysians will be harsh with local films and I'm glad to say it's watchable. In fact, it's fairly comprehensive and not painfully shallow as most local films usually produce. The comedy hit its mark very well and the story really sticks inside of you. Funny how I mentioned the franchised has matured when in fact, the new Cicakman is a father. Oops, spoilers.
Verdict
With all honesty, I predict that this will be a box office hit locally. I've seen Malaysians invests themselves on other pathetic and sad content before (Viral videos, dramas, films). Fortunately, Cicakman 3 does not belong in that list. While the story can definitely be more daring, Cicakman 3 showcases promises in the commercial aspect of the film industry; with it's maturity in storytelling, script and direction. I give it a 3.5/5 ! Keep an eye out for the next local film review, Terbaik Dari Langit! This is long over due! Bila kucing enkau sayang tersesat dia Jalanan!!!
It's important to practice on artworks; regardless of painting, photography, writing and so on. But what's just as important is to acknowledge the small ones such as doodles or spontaneous Instagram shots. What I'm pointing out is the inspirations around you; observing and questioning issues or phenomenons that interests you. I admit that the last semester break, I filled this blog with movie reviews. So, to even the odds, I'll be updating the Inspiration labels. Also, it's important to share your thoughts so that you can develop it; discovering new things about yourself and others.
The nature of consumerism has been fascinating me as of late; observing the market of products that has my interests. What adds more depths to the concept of Consumerist's rights are the videos on Youtube. Of course, big companies took advantage of this and promote their products on the site. But it's the video posted by their customers that I rely on most. I love video reviews. I really do. You can get information of a product--or any product you can think of--without biased commercialization. It's really handy if you're really trying to save money when shopping. Video reviews has become a genre in Youtube and it defines today's way of media where the audience/consumers can produce content. Sometimes, I feel like it's more productive to watch video reviews on Youtube rather than watching TV; the constant update of useful information. Besides, those shopping channels were always annoying.
I've learnt this concept from my hobbies such as collecting action figures and playing video games. And I plan on learning more about purchasing tips; especially on important stuffs like Cars and houses. As I write this, I discover that this article is going to be very long; longer than I expected. So, instead, this article is going to be a hub for past and future articles regarding my hobbies and stuffs that inspire me. So, keep an eye out for links of future articles:
Video Games as Art
Spoil's list of 2013
The lists and a new Assassin
Those memes that highlight art student's money problems aren't funny as I find it unfair; stereotyping that art students are ignorant towards business or dissing the media industry in general. But I must admit that my distastes for it is caused by my fear of my finances. Of course, I wish to live happily and while I go through that journey of finding out what that means specifically, it would be nice to have a stable income. Based on my limited experience, you'll never have enough money because human's wants and needs are boundless. However, it's nice to have the power of decision; to decide for yourself and the ones you love without the baggage of insufficient money. Which is why I chose the picture above; as an example of many items that I can spend my money on. Collecting figures is one of my hobbies and I love being able to choose which ever brands I want without worrying about money too much. So, in this article, I'll update you with my current attempts of overcoming this fear; sharing you with a few designs I did.
Now, this is a familiar concept I tried; involving hype and all. Here's an article that tackles on that topic.
I've been designing a few vectors for t-shirts so that, In Shaa Allah, I can start a part time business. I believe that, without hype, nobody will notice your product and it's incredibly important in the film business. Technically, I'm not done with the designs and they may change. I plan on sharing the process of changing as a part of the hype; in hopes of getting feedbacks while gaining interested customers. It's too early for that now but I see no harm in sharing them in my blog; for the sake of writing my heart's desire, of course. Haha.
In a recent class of mine, I learned a more in depth perspective of today's way of promoting Intellectual Properties. What makes it more interesting is that it's something that I've definitely noticed thus motivating me to try out the concept of Transmedia. To be more precised, it's not just a way to promote films, video games or any other expressive mediums you can think of, it's a way of sharing stories; turning us into a more active audience rather than just consuming. The best example of this phenomenon is fan fiction or , as I've constantly referred to, fan art.
Here's the concept:
Due to my fascination of discovering various mediums of expression (General stuff like films or specific stuffs like being a Star Wars fan), I implied that in the designs. Each design will feature the phrase "Discover me through" followed by any pop culture or media I can think of. For marketing purposes, I'll start with the obvious; topics that would attract wider customers or, at least, customers that I can reach to.
The style would revolve around the flat vector style (The previous picture was just a random picture I took while I was in South Korea). The above design is just an early concept and has definitely change prior to this post. I'll update the latest ones when it's ready.
I started with two media that I'm really invested on. Although I'm more of a console fan (No PC master race debate please), I decided to design a mouse and keyboard vector because it could attract a more specific audience. Plus, the whole controller vector thing is done quite often. But I'll design it in the future nonetheless; for variety purposes.
Other topics that I plan on working next is Kaiju (To add some uniqueness), Anime (I have tones of friends whom are Otakus) and Islam (For holiday or seasoned specials such as Eid or Ramadhan).
In Shaa Allah, I hope, to the very least, that this project would start. Sometimes, I forget that business involves tones of risks. What's keeping me from doing this is the fear that all this effort will go to waste if it fails. But after thinking about it, a wasted effort is much cheaper than doing nothing at all; relying only on parents or student loan's allowance. This is phase 1 of 3 of the business plan. Now, I won't go into the details of the phases but to summarize it, it's basically differs in the designs.
Feedback are much welcome. Alhamdulillah, Salam and thanks for reading!
What's worst than my lack of consistency of updating this blog is the lack of my own works presented in it. It's been a while since I've written something in this label; 'Serious Steps' usually contains visual works of mine. But as of late, I've been focusing more and more on screen writing thus leaving little amount of sketches. I do miss drawing very much and I intend to update one in the near future; In Shaa Allah. However, I have been practicing in various fields of film making besides my University's assignments. Most of it involving writing and photography. So, in this short article, I'd like to share some of my pictures and a script I wrote for class.
Most of these pictures are taken during this year's Ramadhan. Alhamdulillah, it's one my most memorable ramadhan; spending much time with friends and, of course, family. As mentioned in previous posts, I've been fond of geometric shapes. Even though I'm not as excited as I was before when tackling the subject, it has left a mark in me; influencing some of my photography. I don't design geometric vectors anymore but I do, unintentionally, apply them in my pictures.
It's funny how you can't really fully grasp an art form once you learn it. You still need time to learn, understand and, especially, use it to your advantage. But yet the lecturers in my University expects great results. Even with raw talent--and I've seen people with it--they probably spent hours of practice prior to the course. There is no shortcut and I must admit that I couldn't accept that fact in the first place. Perhaps, it was my childish perspective of only focusing on the work load. You should and can have fun with practice...I think it's called a hobby. This factor fascinates me so much because it's so different than learning Math or Science during high school. You study a specific topic for an exam that asks only of those topics. But when you paint or film for an assignment, not only you haven't mastered the topics taught in class but, sometimes, the topics outside the class will also affect your outcome. This sounds like frustration but, in time, it will turn into a motivation for you to strive; to express you thoughts and feelings better through countless mediums of expressions.
And so, as I continue to practice writing and--hopefully--drawing, here's a short script I wrote for class.
Constructive criticisms are always welcomed. Salam and thanks for reading!
