'The 'Invasion Of Sarawak' imagines a modern-day Martian invasion of Kuching, with aliens armed with advanced weaponry and nearly indestructible laksa space bowls,' says Arthur Akal. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani
If your home state were a Hollywood blockbuster, what would it be? Would it pack a punch like Thomas Wee’s martial arts epic The Kelate Kid, or go intergalactic like Fatin Zamawi’s Alor Setar Wars?
Just in time for Malaysia Day, local pop culture brand APOM (A Piece of Malaysia), famous for its cheeky merch, has rallied artists from every state for the fourth edition of the #EmpatBelas exhibition. Their mission? Turn hometown pride into movie poster magic. Grab your popcorn – this is Malaysia, but with a cinematic twist!
The exhibition is currently showing at the newly refurbished Semua House in KL until Oct 6.
Fatin Zamawi’s 'Alor-Setar Wars' poster showcases Darth Angkara's bid to conquer Kedah’s landmarks, while Lukman Skyharim and allies, including Han Sami Solo and Cikgu Chewbakhang, rally to defend their heritage and restore peace. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani
"We're proud to have built a platform where local creatives from every state can shine," said Chantelle Teoh, co-founder of APOM.
"This exhibition is about more than just showcasing talent – it’s a celebration of national unity and a fresh way to express our love for Malaysia that connects with today’s generation," she added.
This project celebrates the nation’s diversity while showcasing how global cinematic influences can be uniquely localised. At the recent exhibition launch, visitors not only got to admire these posters but also had the chance to meet the artists behind them, uncovering the inspirations and stories that brought their creations to life.
Thomas Wee aka 'Thomasupernova' poses with his movie poster creation 'The Kelate Kid' during the launch of the exhibition at Semua House in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani
One standout is Thomas Wee (aka Thomasupernova), a full-time illustrator known for his ink-on-paper works. His Karate Kid-inspired piece features Kelantan’s iconic wau and landmarks like Muzium Adat and Istana Jahar in Kota Baru, blending cultural heritage with a Hollywood twist.
"Creating The Kelate Kid parody poster is a reflection of my personal journey," said Wee.
"It’s a tribute to the lessons and experiences I gained growing up as a minority Chinese in Kelantan, a predominantly Malay state. Like Daniel LaRusso, I found strength in hard work, wisdom in cultural exchange, and learned that what truly matters is what's in your heart," he added.
Iffah Hazirah’s 'The Lord Of The Cincin: The Fellowship Of Sabah' playfully celebrates Sabah’s kuih cincin, featuring Sabahan races on a quest for the best snack. It highlights Sabah’s diversity and Malaysia’s love for local food. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani
Meanwhile, Arthur Akal, a self-taught tattoo artist from Sarawak, specialises in traditional native tribal art. His poster, Invasion Of Sarawak, pays homage to the retro 1950s movie aesthetic.
But instead of futuristic spaceships, the invading aliens arrive in bowls of laksa, adding a playful local twist to the classic sci-fi theme.
"The Invasion Of Sarawak imagines a modern-day Martian invasion of Kuching, with aliens armed with advanced weaponry and nearly indestructible laksa space bowls," explained Akal.
A view the '#EmpatBelas2024' exhibition at Semua House, Kuala Lumpur, featuring iconic movie posters of each state by 14 Malaysian creatives. Photo: The Star/Azman Ghani
"Their assault on the Sarawak River awakens the legendary Bujang Senang, a former Iban warrior cursed to live as a monstrous crocodile. To save humanity, the people of Kuching must unite with Bujang Senang in an epic battle for survival," he added.
The pop-culture references continue with titles like Everything Everywhere All at Negeri Sembilan, The Lord of the Cincin: The Fellowship of Sabah, Kancil-lah: King of Melaka, and E.T. in Perak: An Extra-Teman Adventure.
Apart from the 14 movie posters, limited-edition prints and merchandise inspired by the #EmpatBelas2024 campaign are also available for purchase at the exhibition.
