KUALA LUMPUR: Award-winning actor-director Shahili Abdan or Namron is once again in a character-driven film, set to wow audiences at an international film festival.
His latest directorial effort, One Two Jaga (internationally titled Crossroads) will be screened on the first night of the 20th Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy on April 20.
Expressing delight over the film's selection for the annual festival, Namron said: "One Two Jaga carries a universally applicable theme, of fighting injustice.
"It pays tribute to courageous individuals who uphold integrity in society, even risking life and limb."
Namron said that together with producer Bront Palarae, they were marking their first collaboration not as actors, but filmmakers, and hoped for the best in the festival.
"The Far East Film Festival, as its name suggests, brings lots of Asian films to Europe. It's our chance to showcase original stories which international audiences can relate to."
In an Instagram post today, Namron further said: "It's a win for us in some ways. The opportunity is very meaningful to all of us involved."
Namron who will fly to Italy on April 19 and spend 10 days there, also said two different versions of his film will be screened - one for international audiences and another for Malaysians.
“When One Two Jaga will open in Malaysian cinemas later this year and it will have minor cuts to adhere to guidelines from the Film Censorship Board (LPF). The storyline however will not be affected - just some words will be muted.”
Bront, who spent two years developing the film, expressed his excitement over its opening in Udine on Twitter.
"Couldn't have done it without the support from the cast, crew, supporters and fans," he tweeted.
Bront, who will accompany Namron to Italy, also showed an article by the Hollywood Reporter magazine about One Two Jaga.
A story about corruption in the police force, and courageous officers who expose the culprits, One Two Jaga stars Zahiril Adzim, Namron and Indonesian actors Ario Bayu and Asmara Abigail.
Namron starred in the film Bunohan (2012) which was screened in several international film festivals including Toronto International Film Festival.
Namron's fellow actors congratulated him on Instagram.
Fauziah Ahmad Daud said: "Tahniah. So happy and proud of you and the team."
"Congrats abang Namron," said Sherry Alhadad.
"Best wishes. Hope we can work together someday," said Datuk Fizz Fairuz.