THE musical comedy 'Baik Punya Ah Long' has been selected to premiere at the prestigious International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) later this month.
The opportunity offers its director, Datuk Afdlin Shauki, a much-needed boost after the film's lukewarm reception in local cinemas.
Afdlin revealed that the IFFR's festival director personally chose the film for the line-up after requesting submissions from Astro.
"I was moved when I heard the film was selected because of the positive feedback from the organisers," he told 'Harian Metro'.
Despite the challenges of producing 'Baik Punya Ah Long', particularly in blending musical elements with intricate choreography, Afdlin felt disheartened by the response in Malaysia.
"I wonder if I've lost my touch as a filmmaker. This recognition, however, restores my confidence," he said and noted the risk of venturing into a genre that local audiences might not fully embrace.
He expressed hope that 'Baik Punya Ah Long' would captivate European viewers and hinted at the possibility of a sequel.
The film features 18 songs performed by the cast — Afdlin, Zizan Razak, Johan, Liyana Jasmay, the late Adibah Noor and Adlin Aman Ramlie.
Baik Punya Ah Long has grossed RM2.15 million to date.
Afdlin will attend the festival in the Netherlands, which runs from Jan 30 to Feb 9.
