KUCHING, Oct 28: ‘Koklir’, a live-action feature film is poised to kickstart the Borneo Cinematic Universe, which is set to transport audiences into the depths of Borneo’s mystical folklore.
Drawing inspiration from an ancient Borneo legend, introducing a legendary monster from Iban folklore that promises to redefine the fantasy horror genre.
Directed by the talented Sarawakian filmmaker, Jeycobs Leroy, known for his visual effects work on ‘Wizards of Warna Walk’ (2019), a television series for The Walt Disney Company and his contributions to the award-winning ‘Batik Girl,’ ‘Koklir’ promises a unique blend of captivating storytelling and visual effects.
The co-production of ‘Koklir’ is a testament to the growing creative landscape of Sarawak. ‘Koklir’ will feature a pioneering animated short film, a first for Sarawak, crafted by Mclelun Lee, known for his work as the animation director of ‘Framed Memories,’ and Atiqah Mohd Abu Bakar.
“There is a big world out there in animation,” Bong said in a statement. Video: Koklir animation teaser video via Ventura Interactive
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ventura Interactive Andrew Bong, who not only plays a pivotal role in the production but also showcases his musical talents by composing the film’s original score.
“Storytelling is the most important component in creating a film. It is a tool to let people know about the culture and to let the story speak for itself. There is a big world out there in animation,” he said in a statement.
He added the film’s original score isn’t just accompaniment; it’s a character in itself, shaping the narrative and evoking emotions that heightens the storytelling.
Koklir soundtrack playlist is now available on major music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music etc. PIC: Koklir Soundtrack Cover
“There needs to be more original music scoring for content created by producers for TVS, thus elevating the content, contributing to the creative industry, and creating more job opportunities for musicians, composers, and music producers.
“I am taking matters into my own hands and producing my own film and writing music for the film to showcase what we can do. I want to bring in amazing talents internationally to vamp up our local industry,” said Bong.
He also pointed out a cross-country collaborative effort between sound designer & dialogue editor George Vu, Jazper Nimoi (TV Starz Winner), Milligram (Japanese music artist), Nisa Addina (Sarawak violinist, composer, arranger), pianist Giorgi Mikadze (who performed for Wang Leehom), and the Budapest orchestra for the soundtrack.
‘Koklir’ theme song was recorded with the Budapest Orchestra. Video: Budapest Orchestra via Ventura Interactive
“As a Sarawakian, I get inspired by our local musical themes, the gongs you hear visiting the Long House during the festive season. The plucked sape’ harmoniously with the dance during Gawai. The menacing drums and cymbals of the lion dance during Chinese New Year and many more.
“These experiences define me to translate onto projects I have worked on through a selective process of the type of instrument I want to use, to be played together with the orchestra, and the local Sarawakian musicians I want to feature in my work.
“Good storytelling, good actors, good films matter. One thing I know I am in control of is using the soundscape and music to shape the world of the film. I want audiences to forget about the present world around them and make them believe there is another world out there through the film medium,” he noted.
Horror film enthusiasts and fantasy lovers, don’t forget to catch the film’s exclusive premiere on TVS on October 29th, at 9:15 PM. – TVS
