KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — The push for ideas beyond the comfort zone in Malaysian film production continues to gain momentum with Mikael: Pemburu Dua Alam, the latest local feature directed by Zahir Omar and brought to life through the combined efforts of writer and producer June Tan.
In an industry often guided by familiar genres and proven formulas, a growing number of filmmakers are stepping forward with bold, unconventional concepts that challenge audience expectations.
The story follows Mikael, played by Datuk Remy Ishak, an elite police officer haunted by past trauma, who fights jinns.
When a powerful jinn prince, Torsim (Amir Nafis), emerges with plans to dominate the world by overthrowing seven mystical protectors, Mikael is thrust into a race against time to uncover an ancient artifact capable of stopping him.
An unexpected band of allies rallies: Winston (Norreen Iman), a dealer of black-magic concoctions, Sergeant Kok (Fabian Loo), an earnest but awkward young policeman and Aisyah (Alicia Amin), a resourceful thief skilled in tracking rare artefacts through the black market.
Positioned as a groundbreaking entry in local cinema, Mikael: Pemburu Dua Alam is being touted as the first local film to merge action, comedy, and horror into a single cinematic experience.
Zahir said he got the idea for Mikael from a line he had encountered regarding Angel Jibreel, who is said to have stopped smiling after hell was created.
Having grown up watching movies like Army of Darkness (1992) and Big Trouble in Little China (1986), Zahir said he was also inspired by these two shows to make his own blend for Malaysian cinema.
“These films were typically B-grade. The story doesn’t make much sense, but it’s entertaining,” he shared with the press during the gala screening of Mikael: Pemburu Dua Alam at GSC Mid Valley here yesterday.
Zahir believes the timing is right to bring such a story to Malaysian audiences, as expectations for quality have risen.
“I think the demand for good quality local films now and the expectation of the Malaysian audience, you cannot make a mediocre film.
“You have to make an interesting film that looks good, and I really wanted to deliver that to the audience.”
The film stands out for its approach to the supernatural, favouring physical combat between humans and jinns rather than traditional rituals or exorcisms.
While reminiscent of Hollywood titles like Constantine and Hellboy, the film incorporates Nusantara (South-east Asian) elements to give it a distinct regional identity.
Remy’s performance as Mikael channels the charisma and rebellious edge of classic action heroes from the 1980s and 1990s.
“This story cannot be carried by one person alone. Alhamdulillah, the whole team worked together so well, from all the actors, the technical crew, and the stunt team, everyone was superb.
“We want to bring Malaysian cinema to a higher level,” Remy said during the cast and crew meet-up.
Co-star Alicia Amin echoed the sentiment.
“We all poured our hearts and souls into it, and I hope this comes through as something that everyone loves.”
Mikael: Pemburu Dua Alam opens in cinemas nationwide tomorrow, April 2.
The film also stars Ahirine Ahirudin as Khatijah, Megat Sharizal as Penghulu Qabil, and Anas Ridzuan as Dr Zaid.
