KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 — Local films have been upping their game this year, and last night at Dadi Cinema, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, was no exception with the debut screening of 3 Hajat, a production by KRU Studios and Astro Shaw.
Directed by actor-filmmaker Zul Huzaimy, the film features acclaimed actor Eman Manan, Amerul Affendi, and newcomer Iman Aneesa.
It tells the story of Awang (Eman), a former convict battling illness who is determined to fulfil his last three wishes with his son Tawfiq (Amerul), despite their strained relationship.
Set against the cultural backdrop of a fishing village in Terengganu, the film explores redemption, reconciliation and family bonds. The state government provided official support for the production in October last year.
“3 Hajat is not just an ordinary drama, but an exploration of redemption, reconciliation, and family bonds, delivered with cinematic quality,” Zul said.
Two screenings were held yesterday — a media screening in the afternoon and a royal screening later in the evening attended by Sultan of Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, Sultanah Nur Zahirah, Crown Prince Tengku Muhammad Ismail, and other members of the Terengganu royal family.
Sultan of Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin (fifth from right), Sultanah Nur Zahirah (sixth from right) and other members of the Terengganu royal family with Astro Shaw head Raja Jastina Raja Arshad (second from left) at the 3 Hajat screening in Dadi Cinema, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. — Picture courtesy of Astro Shaw
For KRU Studios, the project marks a departure from its usual fantasy and CGI-driven works, including the Cicakman trilogy and Duyung.
“This film marks a historic milestone for KRU Studios as it is our first experimental drama film,” said executive producer Datuk Norman Abdul Halim, adding that the studio plans to make at least one such film annually.
He noted that the story was personal to him, while scriptwriter Muzzamer Rahman said it was a challenge to depict men confronting hidden pasts and emotions.
Datuk Norman Abdul Halim, executive producer representing KRU Studios, speaks about how the 3 Hajat story is deeply personal to him. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa
Astro Shaw executive producer Raja Jastina Raja Arshad said she was confident the film’s strong storyline and performances would resonate with audiences.
3 Hajat opens in 70 cinemas nationwide tomorrow, Oct 2, promising a cinematic experience rich in themes of family, love, regret and hope.
