Hollywood is already zooming in on the story of flight MH370’s disappearance.
A report by Hollywood Reporter quoted J.C. Spink – the executive producer of a thriller set primarily in an airplane, Red Eye – as commenting that there may already be “50 different people working on 50 different projects that are either inspired by it or based directly on it right now”.
He mentioned that while the disappearance of MH370 was a mind-boggling tragedy, it was interesting and well-suited for a compelling aviation thriller.
“Clearly, something more happened on that flight than we will ever know. And that’s a great jumping-off point,” he said.
Local filmmaker Yusry Abdul Halim, who last helmed Vikingdom, however, said he wouldn’t want to be involved in this story.
“As a Malaysian, this is a highly sensitive issue. But for a Hollywood studio this is nothing to them.
“They have tackled taboo subjects in films before.”
When asked if the story’s copyright should be limited within this region, Yusry replied: “There is no such thing.”
Director Osman Ali agreed that anyone can tell this story, but added that it had to be done the right way.
“I think if Hollywood is doing this film, they have to be responsible to what happened, with no negative images of the people and the countries involved.
“While they have the freedom to tell the story, they have to do proper research, be socially responsible from every aspect and not just exploit the issue.”
Osman, who is best known for films like Bukak Api and Malaikat Di Jendela, pointed out that if Malaysia has the proper funding and support, local filmmakers including himself, would have the capability to make a worthy film that is sensitive to those involved.
“Although it’s a difficult project, if done with the best approach, it can be a good film.”
[Source]
