There was an enormous international presence at the AFM, and none more welcome than the Malaysian contingent. They came under the umbrella of FINAS, a government sponsored organization which has received generous support from the Malaysian Prime Minister. He is keen to encourage local filmmaking in the face of Hollywood’s monopoly of Malaysian theatre.
So Malaysia sent their best and the filmmakers who made it across the continent brought with them an impressive slate of films, from animation to action, drama to documentary; it seems there is no genre they have not stepped into. The content is quirky and has a style no other films can muster which is why so many producers were keen to meet with them. The goal of their journey was not only to sell films they have produced but also to set up co-production deals and pre-sales with international producers and distributors. And did they succeed? Absolutely! They were not ready to divulge details as the ink is not yet dry but Norman Abdul Halim commented as he packed away his flyers, “ I have been coming here for six years and without the AFM I could not have launched my career. This event is second only to Cannes”.
With these auspicious words echoing in the corridor of Lowes, the AFM will be only too delighted to welcome FINAS and their talented filmmakers back next year.