New horror "Khadam" by top production houses Red Communications & Komet Productions

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New horror "Khadam" by top production houses Red Communications & Komet Productions

Writer: Ann Tan

Malaysia-Indonesia horror collaboration "Khadam"

17 Sep - Malaysian cinema will soon witness a bold new horror movie with the upcoming release of "Khadam" - a gripping supernatural thriller that blends rich Nusantara folklore with modern cinematic excellence. The film represents a groundbreaking collaboration between two acclaimed production houses - Red Communications & Komet Productions - marking Red's bold venture into the horror genre.

At the heart of this production is an exceptional cast led by Aghniny Haque, widely celebrated as Indonesia's "Queen of Horror" following her acclaimed performances in "KKN Desa Penari" and "Pemandi Jenazah."

Joining her are Malaysian heartthrob Remy Ishak, known for his versatile roles in "The Experts," "Pulang," and "Sangkar," alongside rising star Siti Khadijah Halim, Malaysia's beloved "Rom-Com Princess" from "From Saga With Love" and "Ash & Aish."

The supporting cast includes seasoned actress Jun Lojong and child actors Zarra Zhaff and Karl'El, creating a multi-generational ensemble that promises to deliver powerful performances across all age groups.

The supernatural thriller stars Aghniny Haque and Remy Ishak

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1950s Malaysia, "Khadam" tells the haunting story of Melor, who reluctantly inherits her family's "saka" - a dark spiritual inheritance with mystical undertones - following her mother's death. As this supernatural force tightens its grip on her life, Melor faces a desperate race against time to protect her young daughter from becoming the next mistress of this dark legacy.

Director Shamyl Othman, who previously helmed the Malaysian horror blockbuster "Rahsia," brings his proven expertise to the project. The screenplay, crafted by acclaimed writer Fariza Azlina Isahak - the creative force behind award-winning films "Songlap" and "KAMI The Movie" - promises to deliver a narrative that captures both the zeitgeist of its era and timeless themes of motherhood and sacrifice.

The project has already garnered significant international attention, attracting investment interest from prominent foreign entities including Hong Kong's Sil Metropole and India's Applause Entertainment. This international involvement signals the growing global appetite for high-quality Southeast Asian genre films with distinctive cultural roots. The film has also received support from FINAS (National Film Development Corporation Malaysia), underlining its significance to the local film industry.

Production is scheduled to commence in mid-September 2025, with the film targeting a nationwide cinema release and select regional markets in 2026. The collaboration between Red Communications and Komet Productions reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Malaysia's film industry by pooling resources, talent, and vision to elevate local horror cinema onto the regional stage.

With an Indonesian star taking on a pivotal role in this Malaysia-based project, "Khadam" aims to reach wider audiences across Southeast Asia, potentially setting a new benchmark for regional horror filmmaking that honours cultural heritage while embracing contemporary cinematic techniques.

About the Production Houses
Red Communications, founded in 1999, has built an award-winning legacy with iconic Malaysian films including "Gol & Gincu," "KAMI The Movie," and "Istanbul Aku Datang!," consistently shaping youth-driven and culturally resonant stories for over two decades.

Komet Productions, launched in July 2023 under media veteran Ahmad Izham Omar, has quickly established itself as a premier Southeast Asian content partner with executive producer credits on landmark films including "Siksa Kubur," "Blood Brothers Bara Naga," and "Ejen Ali The Movie 2."

Cinema Online, 17 September 2025