13 Oct – It has been confirmed that actor and theatre enthusiast Khir Rahman is the chosen man by writer-producer Raja Azmi Raja Sulaiman ("Black Widow Wajah Ayu", "Cinta 100 Ela") to direct her controversial film "... Dalam Botol", previously titled "Anu Dalam Botol".
According to Raja Azmi as quoted from a local newspaper, she initially wanted director Osman Ali to take on the project after previous director Shadan Kasim pulled out. However, Osman Ali had to turn the offer down due to other work commitments. Although Khir Rahman is said to have the lack of experience being in the director's seat, it appears that he has in fact directed a few short films beforehand. "I'm putting the experience I picked up during my years of studying and acting to become a director. I did have future plans on becoming a feature filmmaker, but who knew that opportunity would come so fast," said Khir Rahman who felt grateful. Focusing on the lifestyles of the gay community, "... Dalam Botol" was heavily critiqued by certain authorities and objected by the Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia (JAKIM). "It is undeniable that I'm nervous to take on a film such as this. Some have questioned us, since we're not from the gay community, how do we understand a film like this? I believe it's not a big problem if we do our research right and interact more with their community. It's sometimes hard to explain to the public between someone's real lifestyle than what is portrayed in the movie. I believe a movie is a movie. So I hope that the public won't judge this film as destroying our society," added Khir. "... Dalam Botol" is based on the true story of a gay couple, Ruby dan Ghaus played by two newcomers Arja Lee and Wan Raja.