Tamil filmmaker brings Hang Tuah to big screen in Malay-language debut

GEORGE TOWN: After more than 15 years directing Tamil-language films, Viknes Perrabu is embarking on a new chapter – bringing a story inspired by Malay history and culture to the big screen.

His latest film, “The Keris”, marks the 38-year-old’s first Malay-language feature, combining action with the heritage of the keris, the traditional martial art of silat and the legendary warrior Hang Tuah.

But for the Kedah-born filmmaker, the project was never simply about entering a different market. Instead, he wanted to create a film that could resonate with Malaysians of all backgrounds while introducing local history and cultural heritage to a wider audience.

“I’ve loved history since my school days. It was always one of my favourite subjects and that passion has been reflected in many of my previous Tamil films,” he told Bernama.

Interestingly, “The Keris” almost took a very different direction. Viknes originally planned to make a film centred on silambam, the traditional Indian martial art, before deciding with producer N Matheyalagan to focus instead on silat.

“Silat also carries a rich historical legacy. That’s when the idea of elevating Hang Tuah as the core of the story emerged,” he said.

The switch also meant stepping into unfamiliar territory. To ensure the film remained authentic while appealing to mainstream audiences, Viknes worked with veteran director and screenwriter Zulkifli M Osman and other advisers to verify its language, historical details and cultural elements.

The production took nearly two years to complete, covering historical research, script development, casting and pre-production.

Viknes also admitted feeling intimidated at first when directing an experienced cast that included veteran actor Jalaluddin Hassan. However, he said the support and commitment of the cast and crew helped bring the ambitious project to life.

Filmed across Kedah, Penang, Perlis, Perak and Thailand, “The Keris” features a multiracial cast alongside an international actor, reflecting its broader message of national unity.

Producer Matheyalagan said the production eventually cost RM2.2 million – significantly more than initially planned – due to the construction of elaborate sets, filming across multiple locations, and the involvement of more than 200 crew members.

He added that discussions are underway with Netflix to bring the film to international audiences after its theatrical run.

Also starring Syazlie Syazz, Julia Larica, Firdaus Luthuffi, Zainal Isa and Raja Azrey, “The Keris” opened in over 70 cinemas nationwide yesterday and will premiere in Singapore on July 9.