26 Oct – Malaysian Film Festival-winning director Ahmad Idham claimed that his latest action comedy "Apa Celop Toqq" shows how even mat rempits are individuals who have ambition, and would go the distance to achieve their dreams and ultimately, become useful individuals who can contribute to society. "The reason I shoot "Apa Celop Toqq" is to change the public's perception of this group of people that are normally regarded as the troublemakers in our community. I want to fight for them. I want to tell everyone that as long as we give them some space and a chance, I believe they are able to become successful, thus contributing to our country," Idham explained. The Alor Setar-born director has been well-known for directing films about illegal street racers since 2006, such as "Remp-It", "Adnan Sempit" and "Hantu Bonceng", the last a 2011 box office hit that starred popular comedian Zizan Razak. "You know, every year I try to film a story about mat rempits. In my opinion, someone needs to show their positive side to people. These individuals are just like everyone else. They have dreams," the director said. In "Apa Celop Toqq", local singing sensation Hazama Azmi, the winner of Akademi Fantasia Season 9, who plays the main character, also named Hazama, was praised by director Idham for his impressive big screen debut performance.
"Hazama has great potential to become a huge force in our movie industry. We need to nurture more newcomers like him. In this film, he gave his best in playing the main role. I'm satisfied with his performance because he is just a first-timer," Idham said. However, Hazama revealed that he is not keen to develop his acting career and wanted to focus more on his music work than taking up roles on the silver screen. "For me, music is still my priority in my career. But I'm glad that director Idham gave me an opportunity to star in his directorial feature. It's an honour for me," said Hazama, who will next be seen in Idham's "Lari". "Apa Celop Toqq" follows Hazama, a motor foreman and illegal street racer who pursues his dream to become a singing artist with the help of his best buddy Tapai after meeting a former famous composer. The action comedy also stars Taiyuddin Bakar, Azad Jazmin, Intan Ladyana and Elly Feliziana. It will be released on 25 October in conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya Haji celebration.