Syamsul Yusof interested in Jins Shamsuddin's halted project, "Pasir Salak"
10 Aug – Syamsul Yusof recently revealed that he has been in talks with Tan Sri Jins Shamsuddin's family about continuing the thespian's previous effort to helm a movie about Pasir Salak, a historical site most synonymous with the rise of the Malays against British colonialists through the struggles of Datuk Maharaja Lela among others.
Speaking about the project recently, Syamsul said that he is interested in resuming the halted project, not only because the initial research has already been done by the late filmmaker, but that it could also be a tribute to Jins himself.
"What I understand is that, the funding that he received for the movie was not enough, which was the reason for the halt. But they already have the original script, the props, and the set plans. All we have to do is proceed with it," he said.
However, the director stated that he would still have to stylise and revise the script to fit the audiences of today, that is if he is indeed taking over.
As for the estimated budget for the project, Syamsul stated that to make a quality movie, he would at least need RM20 million.
"But I still am in discussion to see which national heroes would be suitable for adaptation next, because I can't be doing all of them. I wouldn't just choose which historical figure, but also what story would challenge me as a director and writer," he added.
It is noted that Jins' movie, "Pasir Salak: King of the River" had the support of the Perak government when it was announced, but did not come to fruition. The filmmaker then passed away in 2017.
(Photo Source: Syamsul Yusof Instagram, Bebas News)
