19 Jan – The new Malaysian movie "Pulau" has been facing backlash over the release of its official trailer recently. The movie, which revealed its trailer on social media recently, was blasted for some of its steamy scenes as well as scenes of actresses in bikinis, with netizens questioning why such scenes are being normalised. One commented, "The storyline seems interesting, but I think those [steamy] scenes are unnecessary." Another posted, "Since the title of this movie is Pulau. So, let's all 'pulau' (boycott) this movie together."
Meanwhile, some expressed frustrations with the quality of acting and choice of actors, which include influencers like Pui Yi, with one writing, "Is this a horror movie or a script reading activity with your favourite influencers? Please. We want to see talented actors on the big screen. We are already seeing these influencers on a daily basis."
The movie was also slammed for having similarities with the Hollywood horror movie, "Fantasy Island", including having a similar-looking poster. On the other hand, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzi expressed his opinion that the trailer was not suitable for viewing, though stated that he can't speak on behalf of LPF (Film Censorship Board of Malaysia) and FINAS (National Film Development Corporation Malaysia). "Whatever procedures monitored by FINAS are based on the standard operating procedure (SOP) between LPF and FINAS," he added. The upcoming movie stars Alif Satar, Amelia Henderson, Joey Leung, and Sanjna Suri among others.