KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 8  — Crime stories have been a fixture in Malaysian cinema for years, but Macai, the spiritual successor to 2015’s Jagat, delivers a bold and uniquely daring perspective.

Directed by Sun-J Perumal and set in the fictional country of Lingapura, portrayed as bordering Singapore, the film follows a young man named Siam, who becomes entangled in the dangerous currents of street politics, criminal syndicates, and systemic power manipulation in post-Independence society.

Attending the special media screening yesterday at Lotus Five Star (LFS) Cinemas in Petaling Jaya, Malay Mail noticed how Macai brings forth a more mature evolution of Jagat, expands on its predecessor’s exploration of crime, while carving out its own unique identity.

With its dark, realistic storytelling, Macai exposes the struggles of ordinary people who are exploited as tools—or “macai”—by a corrupt system.

Rooted deeply in local culture, the film amplifies Malaysian voices and explores pressing social themes, including identity within the Malaysian Indian community.

Its dark, noir style fits the story perfectly, and the fast pace keeps viewers on edge, drawing them into a gripping, socially aware crime drama.

The three standout leads

The film’s three leads deliver standout performances with Karnan G. Crak, showcasing his versatility as he demonstrated in Blues, embodies Siam with precision and depth.

He emphasised that, in crafting the role, he didn’t draw from any external influences but fully immersed himself in the world and psyche of Siam.

“While watching the film for the first time, I found myself thinking about what Siam’s mother would think of him being caught up in the world of crime, and what his life and character might have been like in the past,” said Karnan.

Irfan Zaini once again proves his versatility, following standout performances in Blood Brothers: Bara Naga and Honey Trap where this time, he brings the character of Jack to life on screen.

“Macai is an experience that you need to fall into the trip and ride,” he said.

Kuben Mahadevan shines as Oosi, providing comic relief and helping balance the film’s darker tones.

“It’s a good experience working on this project,” said Kuben.

“I hope more people will get to know about this movie.”

The three performances mesh seamlessly, bringing Macai to life and delivering a compelling, unforgettable cinematic experience.

The story’s deeper meaning

Sure, the film touches on the drug trade, kidnapping, and corruption, however, it’s clear that the movie isn’t promoting any of these activities.

Speaking to director Sun-J, he explained that the film is more about an internal journey.

“Some people say the real war is inside us and not outside.

“I’m just trying to reflect on the outer war while living in a war, “ he said.

“For me, once everyone realises themselves, there won’t be any war or plagues.

“The most important thing is to understand yourself—that’s my intention,” he said.

He added, “Audiences should watch Macai to experience a trippy journey unlike anything they’ve seen before.

“I think it will be a completely new experience for them.

“There might have been films like this before, but I’m trying to approach it from my perspective.

“I hope it will be a trippy ride,” he concluded.

The cast also features Fabian Loo, Subashini Asokan, Susan Lankester, Myrra Baity, and Andy Darrel Gomes.

Macai is set to be released nationwide on November 13, with screenings across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.