PH-Malaysian film joins Berlin market

JC Santos in “Motel Acacia” teaser

Malaysian director Bradley Liew’s second film, “Motel Acacia,” is joining the Berlinale Co-Production Market, which will be held from Feb. 17 to 21, in conjunction with the A-list festival in Germany.

“We’re super excited as this is the biggest project market we’ll be attending,” said Liew, who made his directorial debut with the Pepe Smith starrer, “Singing in Graveyards.”

“We’re hoping that this event will help us find our international partners because we’re planning to shoot in the snow.”

Thriller

The thriller is set in a sex motel where immigrants are “exterminated,” with the assistance of a tree demon.

Liew is eyeing Filipino actors Angel Aquino and JC Santos to topbill the film.

“Motel Acacia” likewise participated in the Sam Spiegel International Film Lab, Eave Ties That Bind, Bucheon’s NAFF IT Project, and Talents Tokyo Next Masters Support Program.

With partner Bianca Balbuena, Liew is also a producer of Lav Diaz’s latest film, the musical “Ang Panahon ng Halimaw” (Season of the Devil), which will premiere in the main tilt of the Berlinale next month.—BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR.