Compiled by ALLISON LAI, FAZLEENA AZIZ and R. ARAVINTHAN
THE Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) denied allegations that it was side-lining local films’ showtimes in favour of Hollywood movies, Berita Harian reported.
MAFE treasurer Dr Sai Suthan said it was not true that showtime for local animated film Mechamato Movie in cinemas was reduced for Hollywood blockbuster Avatar: The Way of Water.
“Most of our films have great potential, so the issue of marginalising or side-lining local films does not arise.
“Our organisation and fellow cinema operators always try our best to help elevate the level of local films,” he added.
On the reduction of Mechamato’s screening time, Sai said it was because cinemas had to follow the screening schedule that had been set.
“The release of this film has a schedule which cinemas have to follow. In addition, priority is also given to new films that come in.
“However, the main factor that affects airtime is performance and audience response.
“If you have noticed, Mechamato’s graph is always increasing and because of that, this movie is still being shown.
“If the film is good and receives high demand, we will increase the screening time, and this happened with Mechamato.
“So, MAFE and the cinemas gave their full support,” he said.
Entering its third week in 150 cinemas nationwide, the animated film produced by Animonsta Studios Sdn Bhd (Monsta) has raked in RM27mil at the box office so far.
> Kedah Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor told the public not to be fooled by an investment advertisement on social media that uses his picture, Kosmo! reported.
He warned the public of the alleged scam via his Facebook page on Wednesday, also uploading a picture of the advertisement.
“This is a scammer using my picture. Please don’t be deceived,” he added.
The ad displays an investment that is claimed to be syariah-compliant, claiming investors can make a profit within four hours.
It also claims that investors can make a profit of RM9,000 with an investment of RM300; RM16,000 with RM500; and RM29,000 with RM1,000.
The above articles are compiled from the vernacular newspapers (Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese and Tamil dailies). As such, stories are grouped according to the respective language/medium. Where a paragraph begins with a >, it denotes a separate news item.
