Namewee’s ‘Banglasia’ to screen in New York.

Banned in Malaysia, movie is described as a ‘hilarious and surreal’ comedy of political corruption, mass hysteria about immigration, and out-of-control nationalism.

KUALA LUMPUR: Wee Meng Chee @ Namewee’s controversial second cinematic venture, ‘Banglasia,’ is set to hit the silver screens in New York on July 10 during the upcoming 14th annual New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) which begins June 26.

The movie has been described by NYAFF director Goran Topalovic as a “hilarious and surreal” comedy that touches on issues of political corruption, mass hysteria about immigration, and out-of-control nationalism, reports The Star.

“While Banglasia makes fun of issues that are of great concern to Malaysian audiences, Americans can definitely identify with them, too,” Topalovic reportedly said, adding that NYAFF was proud to host the premiere of the movie.

“I wanted to direct a film that I feel strongly about by being fun and entertaining,” Namewee was quoted as saying. “I hope Malaysians will come support this film and watch it with me.”

Reported to have been shot with a budget of RM2 million, the movie was shot in Petaling Street and features a cast that includes Alleycats lead singer David Arumugam and local comedian Saiful Apek.

Early last year, Namewee claimed that the Film Censorship Board (LPF) and the Home Ministry (KDN) had banned the film for 31 reasons. The ban encompassed both public and private screenings and even prevented the film from being uploaded to YouTube or sold, legally or illegally!

In a post on Facebook at the time, Namewee said, “Banglasia was heavily criticised by LPF and KDN, and we have received 31 official notes and orders to re-shoot the movie.”

“Obviously we cannot afford to re-do the filming process as all 31 notes issued by LPF are 90% of the film itself,” he added.

Prior to this, the film was also screened at the Osaka Asian Film Festival 2015 (OAFF), which ran from March 6 to 15 this year.

Namewee’s first film, Nasi Lemak 2.0 was screened September 2011 and gained respectable success, grossing in excess of RM7 million at the box office.