Page 120 - The Guide To Sarawak

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THE ARTS
Camera, Lights, Action
By Dyan Ong
Sarawak – a Unique & Idyllic Film Location Sarawak is the ideal location for any kind
of film, TV or video production with a tropical, colonial, rainforest or Southeast Asian theme. Easily accessible virgin jungles, spectacular geological features, mighty rivers and lakes, fast- flowing jungle streams
and waterfalls and unique fauna and flora offer the perfect natural backdrop. Brooke-Era buildings, 19th Century Chinese bazaars, Colonial-Era mansions and stunning modern architecture provide the urban context for almost any theme or era, while
sleepy Malay villages and remote Iban and Orang Ulu longhouses provide idyllic rural settings. Best of all are the people – Sarawak’s colourful and diverse ethnic groups are a source of willing extras and, increasingly, experienced dramatic, musical and cultural talents.
Filming in Sarawak is cost- effective and logistically effortless, with frequent daily flights between all major cities and the major media industry hubs of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Luxurious 5-star hotels, well-appointed jungle lodges and rainforest retreats offer quality accommodation for cast and crew. Most importantly, the State Government is keen to promote Sarawak as a film location and provides a high level
of official support to producers.
A number of major productions have already been entirely or partially shot in Sarawak, including:
Feature films
·Farewell to the King (Orion Pictures, 1987) starring Nick Nolte ·Welcome Home (Columbia Pictures, 1989) starring Kris Kristofferson ·The Sleeping Dictionary (Fine Line Features, 2000) starring Jessica Alba, Bob Hoskins
·The Intended (IFC, 2002) starring Janet McTeer, Brenda Fricker
Documentaries
·Michael Palin’s Full Circle (BBC, 2000)
·Sacred Planet (Disney/ IMAX, 2002) narrated by Robert Redford
The former Chief Minister (now Governor) with his late wife Datuk Patinggi (Dr) Hajah Laila Taib and some Iban warrior extras on set in Matang.