Lim Teck, executive producer at Singapore-based distribution company Clover Films, said that Asian audiences are now "tired" of Hollywood content with its endless sequels and spin-offs. They are starting to choose what is more relatable and relatable, and many domestic films from Asian countries are gaining attention. Notable recent examples include Indonesia's "Jumbo" and "Agak Laen: Menyala Pantiku!"; Japan's "Kokuho" and "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle"; Malaysia's "Ejen Ali 2"; Thailand's "How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies"; and South Korea's "The King's Warden"... These films not only broke box office records in their home countries but also resonated internationally. Among them, "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu No Yaiba Infinity Castle" and "How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies" are considered box office phenomena outside the region.
As a distributor of many Asian films, Clover Films focuses on markets with cultural similarities such as Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Thailand. This approach has helped Clover Films become the distributor of many successful films such as: “Sunshine Women's Choir” (Taiwan), “Death Whisperer 3” (Thailand), “Ejen Ali 2” (Malaysia)... and also become a co-producer and distributor of “I Not Stupid 3” and “Money No Enough 3” directed by Jack Neo. Singaporean filmmaker Jack Neo is currently favored by critics and audiences for his unique filmmaking style, specializing in exploring local issues with a community focus, about the lives of the working class, public housing, ethnicity... In particular, Jack Neo's films often incorporate multiple languages, making them easily accessible to international markets.
Nelson Mok, CEO of Mokster Films, a Singapore-based film distribution company, commented: “The COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to shift their behavior towards greater localization, especially in food consumption, travel , and film. Audiences now focus on seeking value and intimate experiences.” Nelson Mok cited the success of the Thai film “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” (pictured) , which became a phenomenon in Southeast Asia and China, even breaking box office records for Thai films in Australia, New Zealand, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Vietnam. This is because the film contains a story about deep family bonds in a very East Asian way. Nelson Mok stated that the film has been licensed in 129 countries, including multinational agreements.
Choi Yoonhee, President and CEO of Barunson E&A, a film distribution company based in Seoul, South Korea, also stated: “Young audiences are looking for good, well-made films with their own unique identity. Audiences are changing, tastes are becoming increasingly diverse, and as a result, Asian films are setting many box office records.” This explains why entertainment and content companies in South Korea are focusing on investing in local scripts. For example, CJ ENM, Finecut, and Barunson E&A are selecting or investing in projects from Indonesia.
Michael Chai, CEO of Westec Media (Cambodia), and Jason Ieong, representative of Edko Films (Hong Kong, China), a production, distribution, and screening group, believe that the shift from the big screen to the small screen during the COVID-19 pandemic has led audiences to increasingly favor local content. Simultaneously, Asian films offer diverse genres and storylines, and their unique identities are expanding the market. For example, Thailand has a strong reputation in horror films, South Korea is known for its romantic dramas, Indonesia showcases mystical folklore, and Japan excels in animation and art films.
BAO LAM (Compiled)
Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/phim-anh-chau-a-len-ngoi-a204764.html
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