02/09/2025

LYFE TUESDAY | SEP 2, 2025

25

The Shadow’s Edge tops RM10m in Malaysia o Jackie Chan, Tony Leung’s reunion sparks regional box office frenzy

T HE action blockbuster The Shadow’s Edge has stormed the Malaysian box office, surpassing RM10 million in just 13 days since its nationwide release on Aug 16. Directed by Larry Yang ( Ride On ), The Shadow’s Edge reunites two of Asia’s most iconic stars Jackie Chan and Tony Leung Ka-Fai in their first collaboration in two decades. Joining them are Zhang Zifeng, one of China’s most prominent young actresses, alongside an ensemble cast that brings emotional depth and electrifying action to the screen. The Shadow’s Edge follows Wong Tak-Chung (Chan), a retired surveillance and tracking expert, who is forced back into the shadows to confront the elusive “Wolf King” (Leung). When a brilliant hacker team challenges the state-of-the-art “Sky Eye” surveillance system, the ensuing battle of wits and survival sets off a citywide clash of loyalty, deception and ultimate sacrifice. While the film’s Malaysian box office receipts have already soared past RM10 million within less than two weeks, The Shadow’s Edge has also been a juggernaut across Asia. In China, the film grossed over 700 million yuan (RM414.6 million) within 14 days of release. The film has further earned a prestigious slot in the Busan International Film Festival’s Open Cinema programme, where it will be showcased to an audience of 5,000 in an open-air screening. Industry observers predict that The Shadow’s Edge will continue to surge at the box office, potentially breaking new milestones and solidifying its place as one of 2025’s biggest Asian blockbusters in Malaysia.

THE Malaysian Vertical Web Drama Association (Vertima), formed just two months ago, is set to boost the fast-growing vertical drama – or microdrama – industry that is rapidly gaining traction across social media platforms. Vertima chairperson Zuraini Kassim said vertical dramas in the 9:16 video format are now dominating social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts, drawing encouraging responses from local audiences. In this regard, Zuraini said the establishment of the non-profit association is important to provide an official body to coordinate the industry’s growth in a more structured and competitive manner, while fostering a dynamic ecosystem to support vertical content creators. “Our mission is to develop a more professional and organised industry ecosystem by nurturing new talents and setting new standards in digital storytelling. “We are opening new career pathways for directors, scriptwriters, editors, actors and crew members, while building a generation of more skilled and competitive digital entertainment professionals,” he said after the launch of the association recently. Zuraini, a veteran actor active since the 1990s in local films and dramas, said Vertima also plans to organise training programmes to help actors, directors and crew adapt to the requirements of producing vertically formatted dramas. “Many industry players who are used to producing horizontal dramas feel awkward when moving into this new medium. So, we want to provide training so they can adapt to the techniques and style of vertical storytelling, or the vertical format,” he said, adding that Vertima now has more than 100 members. To support Vertima’s mission, Zuraini said the association has set up five main bureaus: Training and Membership Affairs, Production and Technical, Creative Content, Media and Events, as well as Industry Relations and Networking. He said these bureaus play roles such as empowering new talent, enhancing creative content production skills, setting quality standards and planning high-impact marketing campaigns. Meanwhile, Malaysian Artistes Association president Zed Zaidi said Vertima’s presence could complement the creative industry ecosystem by focusing specifically on microdramas. “If executed well, Vertima could become the platform of choice for the new generation. Many young actors and crew are seeking opportunities, and when they are unable to find them in the mainstream, the microdrama platform can serve as a strong alternative. “At the same time, I hope this association upholds a transparent and professional selection process for actors and crew, to avoid repeating the shortcomings of the mainstream industry, which at times places popularity above the quality of the work,” he said. – Bernama Vertima rides rising vertical drama wave (From left) Zed, MantaYay CEO Ng Yu Bin, Zuraini and Finas director of production management Yusop Hassan. – BERNAMAPIC

Chan plays a retired surveillance and tracking expert in the film.

The SuperKitties make an appearance. Ariel the Little Mermaid. Disney Jr Live on Tour: Let’s Play! enchants audiences with magical characters Minnie (left) and Mickey Mouse.

AUDIENCES were swept into a night of music, dance and Disney magic when Disney Jr Live On Tour: Let’s Play! lit up the Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting with beloved characters and unforgettable moments. During the first show last Friday, audiences were transported into a world of imagination, laughter and interactive fun that left children and parents alike with unforgettable memories. The evening kicked off with a lively set from the Disney Junior DJ, instantly energising the crowd. Young fans cheered with delight when Mickey Mouse made his grand entrance on stage, setting the tone

and applause filled the Arena of Stars as Spider-Man swung into the spotlight, captivating the audience and completing the magical playdate. Every song, dance and special effect kept children on the edge of their seats, while parents joined in the fun, singing and clapping along. The show truly embodied the Disney Jr spirit of music, friendship and adventure. Jointly presented by Unusual Entertainment and Lo-Fi Entertainment, Disney Jr Live On Tour: Let’s Play! was a celebration of storytelling and imagination, bringing the timeless magic of Disney to a new generation.

for a night full of excitement. From that moment on, the energy never slowed. Audiences were taken through a “playdate checklist” that included singing, dancing, games and balloons. With each new checklist item, another beloved Disney character appeared – ranging from Goofy and Ariel the Little Mermaid to the SuperKitties and more. Minnie Mouse drew some of the loudest cheers of the night when she joined in during the balloons segment, adding even more joy and wonder to the evening. After a brief intermission, the action resumed with one of the most highly anticipated moments of the night. Gasps