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Kota Kinabalu: A local director has lamented some theatres' lukewarm treatment of local movies, saying they usually do not show the films on prime time.

Chua Soon Min said May 26 was a joyful day because his movie, "Craze Below The Wind", a film featuring mostly local cast, was eventually screened in most cinemas nationwide after a two-year wait due to the pandemic. 

He recalled many of his friends were supportive and many even bought tickets for their friends.

"However, I discovered some irresponsible theatres are hampering local films in Malaysia from going any further," Chua complained in Mandarin in a clip posted on Facebook.

"Of course, some theatres are very helpful and I must thank them.

"Today, a friend of mine told me, when he wanted to buy tickets to watch the movie, he found out that the theatre was showing the movie at 11am and 5pm only when people were basically still busy at work."

According to Chua, most movies showing on primetime in the evening are Hollywood movies while he has been working hard and spending a lot of money to make his film. 

Maybe, a production cost of over RM1 million is nothing compared to those multimillion dollar Hollywood movies, but it represents his sincere effort.

"'Craze Below The Wind' is mostly local cast and well spoken of by the community as a whole, l must say," explained Chua. 

"Unfortunately, the movie is only showing in some theatres in the morning when basically no one is free, and you won't be able to watch it if you can't buy a ticket.

"Eventually, the theatres' management would tell you the  movie has no market and took it down after a few days.

"This film is our painstaking efforts for many years."

"All I can say is, if you are interested and if you are free in the morning, then find some  time to enjoy it." 

Chua believes local films are often not so popular not because they are not well made, but because the showing time doesn't suit many locally.

The locals at large won't have a chance to watch a movie at 11am and 5pm.

"And then you will hear some people asking: 'Has this film been in the theatre?'" said Chua. 

"If the showing time is not suitable, please let me know and we will try to fight for it.

"I hope more people can watch this movie."

The movie, made with a budget of approximately RM1.5 million, was shot in various locations in Sabah. 

The movie casts Tian Long, Daphne Low, Gadrick Chin, Charles Wong and Carol Tan, among others.

Gary Chaw, a Malaysian singer based in Taiwan, is also making a special appearance.