Banglasia 2.0 is a comedy film by home-grown Malaysian rapper-director Namewee.
The movie did not debut in Malaysia but had garnered international acclaim with screenings at the New York Asian Film Festival, the Osaka International Film Festival and the Singapore International Film Festival.
The Malaysian Film Censorship Board (LPF) has finally lifted the ban on Banglasia 2.0 and will be on screen nationwide starting on the 28th February 2019.
Producing Banglasia 2.0 was not an easy task as the rapper-director was forced to compromise and do some alterations to the shoots, and even removed some of the original scenes in the movie in order to meet the final approval requirements.
Namewee says,
“After years of uncertainty I can’t help but feel very emotional. It’s a mixed feeling: very happy that it’s finally approved, but real sadness because I can’t show the film in its fullest and purest intended version.
“However, I respect and thank LPF for its decision because I don’t want to wait another 5 years.”
Namewee also highlighted for filmmakers to have freedom of expression.
“We have a new government now and new hope for the country. This film is a good representation of that. If you don’t believe me, do go watch it yourself!”
The film is a fast-paced action comedy fictional story of how Malaysians of different races unite to defend the county against foreign invasion with the help of a Bangladeshi worker.
Banglasia 2.0 is actually a re-submission of Banglasia in 2014, as 20 scenes, or over 50% of the film’s entire duration were demanded to be cut.
However new scenes are added to keep the story relevant and to acknowledge Malaysia’s recent General Election.
Namewee and top Bangladeshi actor, Nirab Hossain head a multi-racial Malaysian cast of Saiful Apek, Shashi Tharan, Datuk David Arumugam, Jack Lim and Raja Ilya alongside Singaporeans Atikah Suhaime and Lao Za Bor to complete the star acts.
Produced by digital media entertainment company WebTVAsia, Banglasia 2.0 will be available across the country in major cinemas this 28th February with an 18 rating.
We’ve wait for this for five years, Malaysians. So, let’s go ahead and enjoy the show!
Written by Fatin Zafirah
