AdminThe recently concluded ASEAN International Film Festival 2023 (AIFFA 2023) ended on a high note, with Malaysian film “Barbarian Invasion” stealing the spotlight and taking home the coveted Best Film award. The prestigious event, which celebrated the best of Southeast Asian cinema, was held at the iconic Old Courthouse in Kuching, Sarawak.
“Barbarian Invasion” faced fierce competition from six other exceptional works from the region in the Best Film category. These included noteworthy films such as “Before, Now & Then” from Indonesia, “Ginhawa” and “Kargo” from the Philippines, “Prebet Sapu” and “First Journey” from Malaysia & Indonesia, and “Duan Nago Bogho” from Malaysia. Despite the tough competition, “Barbarian Invasion” managed to stand out and claim the top honor.
The film distributed by Da Huang Pictures also earned recognition in the Best Screenplay category, further solidifying its position as one of the most outstanding works of cinematic art in Southeast Asia. This success at AIFFA 2023 added to its previous achievements, including the Jury Grand Prix trophy at the 24th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF) in 2021.
Director Tan Chui Mui, who played a significant role in the film’s success, was celebrated for her exceptional talent, receiving the Best Female Actor award at the 32nd Malaysia Film Festival (FFM32) in the previous year. “Barbarian Invasion” features a stellar cast, including Pete Teo, Bront Palarae, James Lee, and Zhiny Ooi, whose impeccable performances contributed to the film’s impact.
Honoring Malaysian talents
Malaysia’s success at AIFFA 2023 extended beyond “Barbarian Invasion.” Veteran actor Datuk Ahmad Tarmimi Siregar received the Best Male Actor award for his moving portrayal in “First Journey.” The heartwarming film, a collaboration between Malaysian and Indonesian production companies, D Ayu Pictures and Mahakarya Pictures, emphasized the spirit of regional unity in filmmaking.
Moreover, the festival recognized other Malaysian talents, including Hasnul Rahmat, who earned the Best Male Supporting Actor award for his role in “Jerangkung Dalam Almari.” Additionally, the Asean Spirit Award went to “Duan Nago Bogho,” a film that skillfully incorporated traditional Malay elements into an action-packed narrative, underscoring the importance of preserving cultural heritage within the realm of cinematic artistry.
Lifetime Achievement Award for U-Wei Saari
The festival also took the time to honor the invaluable contributions of experienced director U-Wei Saari, who was rightfully bestowed with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. U-Wei Saari’s remarkable career spanning several decades has left an indelible mark on the film industry, influencing generations of filmmakers and storytellers. His dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity and his commitment to promoting regional narratives have truly made him a luminary in the world of cinema.
‘Rain’ makes a special appearance
The AIFFA 2023 also saw the presence of international star power. South Korean sensation Jung Ji-Hoon, famously known as Rain, made a special appearance during a meet and greet session on the final day of the festival. Hundreds of eager fans gathered since the early hours, eagerly awaiting a chance to catch a glimpse of the heartthrob.
During the session, Rain expressed his excitement about visiting Kuching for the first time. “This is my first time in Kuching, and it’s like heaven for me. There’s so much delicious food, and it’s such a beautiful city,” he said, drawing cheers from the ecstatic crowd. He even surprised everyone by speaking Malay phrases he had learned since arriving in Malaysia, further endearing himself to the fans.
The award-winning artist also received the esteemed ASEAN Inspiration Award during the event, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to the entertainment industry. Rain’s versatile talents as a singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor have earned him a dedicated global fanbase and numerous accolades throughout his career.
Enthralling performances and esteemed guests
The peak night of AIFFA 2023 was filled with excitement and entertainment, thanks to live performances by talented Malaysian and Indonesian artists. Hetty Koes Endang, Datuk Sheila Majid, Zee Avi, Amir Jahari, and The Shang Sisters enthralled the audience with their mesmerizing acts, reflecting the rich artistic and cultural diversity of the ASEAN region.
The 2023 AIFFA Awards saw 17 categories being competed, recognizing various aspects of film production, both creative and technical. The presence of esteemed guests, including Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Deputy Minister of Tourism Dato Sebastian Ting, and Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, added to the significance of the occasion.
The esteemed jury, which included U-Wei Saari and Effendee Mazlan from Malaysia, Ihsan Nurullah Kabil from Turkey, Viva Westi from Indonesia, and Pham Thi Hong An from Vietnam, had the challenging task of selecting the winners from a wide range of exceptional films that encapsulated the essence of the ASEAN region.
The winners of the ASEAN International Film Festival 2023 (AIFFA 2023) are:
- Lifetime Achievement Award: U-Wei Saari
- Asean Spirit Icon Award: Phlip Cheah
- Best Film: “Barbarian Invasion” (Malaysia)
- Best Director: Carlo Obispo for “The Baseball Player” (Philippines)
- Best Actor: Datuk Tamimi Siregar in “Perjalanan Pertama” (Malaysia and Indonesia)
- Best Supporting Actor: Hasnul Rahmat in “Jerangkung Dalam Almari” (Malaysia)
- Best Actress: Max Eigenmann in “Kargo” (Philippines)
- Best Supporting Actress: Kim B Ngo in “The Brilliant Darkness” (Vietnam)
- Special Jury Award: “Fathers” (Cambodia) and “Before, Now and Then” (Indonesia)
- Best Director of Cinematography: Roy Lolang for “The Woman Crowned with A Crescent Moon” (Indonesia)
- Best Film Editing: “Faces of Anne” (Thailand)
