Local filmmaker Akmal Marhain has set his eyes on creating Brunei’s first cinematic universe, IntiqamVerse, connecting his films directly or indirectly.
Action thriller, Intiqam 2: Wira Budiman, marks the fourth instalment in the IntiqamVerse film franchise, which commenced with Intiqam released in 2021 and later expanded with Zidan and Thiya’s Case 1.
“I’ve always been interested in telling my own stories and exposing myself to many mediums,” shared the multi-hyphenate founder of Marhain Entertainment during the opening of the action thriller film.
Choosing film as a platform to convey his work, Akmal is determined to demonstrate that local cinematographers possess the ability to reach for the stars and craft captivating and pride-worthy films.
“When I first started writing the first Intiqam movie, I had already decided that it would consist of its own universe, followed up with numerous sequels,” said the director, producer and actor who also stars in the film.
The first movie tells a story of a protagonist who wants to avenge the death of his brother, taking on a masked hero persona by the name ‘Budiman’.
Its sequel picks up where the first story left off. After having chosen to lead a tranquil existence, circumstances compelled him to resume his role as the masked hero to protect the City of Nufoz – the main fictional city in the film.
Akmal said that making a movie, let alone trying to set up a whole cinematic universe, is no easy task.
“Budget-wise we had to look for sponsors, and shooting for the movie took up a whole month,” said Akmal.
However daunting the task may be, the filmmaker feels strongly passionate about the art and being able to do it is something he wants to prove.
Akmal also said it is time for Bruneians to believe in themselves, building his crew completely out of locals, from the shooting team to the stunt team and actors.
“If we keep thinking and having the mindset that there is no market and interest in local films, then it will stay that way forever,” he added.
The determined filmmaker advocated for persistence, believing that initial attempts may demonstrate and prove potential, and with later tries, one could garner more support.
He said as improvement occurs over subsequent attempts, people will eventually acknowledge and value both the individual’s brand and creative output.
“Keep on trying until people can see and believe in you and never give up,” he said.
Having faith that Brunei has a large pool of talent, Akmal commended the experienced actors and crew of Intiqam 2 for the professionalism as well as their talent that became the main contribution to the making of the film.
“The action and stunt scenes in the film are our attempt in being innovative and to raise the standards of local films to be on par with regional films as well as the international level,” said the director.
Apart from showcasing action as their main attraction, Intiqam 2 also contains a narrative full of religious advice.
The fully locally produced film is currently featured at the local cinema. – Adib Noor
