‘Chelot’ director Adrian Teh goes old school: 95pc practical effects, real explosions and minimal CGI

Malaysian action film Chelot, produced by Act 2 Pictures, is a labor of love for director Adrian Teh, known for Paskal, Reversi and Magik Rompak. The movie recently set a record for the longest single-take action sequence in Malaysian cinema, covering 1.9 kilometers and lasting five minutes and 19 seconds without a single cut. Director Teh and his team prioritize practical effects, with 95% of the film's effects achieved on set through pyrotechnics, explosions and bullet-hit effects.

He views this approach as a return to the fundamentals of filmmaking, emphasizing the beauty and realism that practical effects provide. While CGI was employed where necessary, the director believes it can't replicate the authenticity of practical effects. The film's protagonist, special operations police officer Inspector Haqqim, is portrayed by Shukri Yahaya, and the story delves into themes of family, sacrifice, and the often-overlooked sacrifices made by members of the police force. Chelot is set for nationwide release on August 27.