Malaysian-Made Animation ‘Fleak’ Blends Fantasy, Emotion and Global Collaboration Ahead of Local Debut
KUALA LUMPUR: Upcoming animated feature Fleak is poised to make a strong impression on Malaysian audiences after gaining encouraging international recognition through global screenings and film festival appearances, while showcasing Malaysia’s growing role in high-end animation production.
The fantasy adventure film, directed by Jens Møller, known for his work on LEGO Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu and LEGO Star Wars, combines emotional storytelling with visually ambitious world-building inspired by European animated cinema.
Produced through a multinational partnership involving Anima Vitae Point, Anima Vitae, Animoon and Godo Films, the film also sees Astro Shaw handling local marketing and cinema distribution.
At the centre of Fleak is Thomas, a young boy whose life changes dramatically after an accident leaves him unable to walk.
His discovery of a mysterious creature named Fleak transports him into a surreal alternate dimension filled with magical landscapes, strange creatures and emotional self-discovery.
During the recent gala premiere attended by members of the media and industry players, the film impressed audiences with its richly detailed animation style, emotionally layered narrative and imaginative fantasy setting.
Chief executive officer of Anima Vitae Point, Yuki Pang, revealed that much of the production process took place during the Covid-19 pandemic, with Malaysian animators playing a major role throughout development.
She said approximately 20 Malaysian animators contributed to the film, which involved around 300 production personnel across participating studios in several countries.
The production reportedly carried a budget of around €4.6 million (RM21.1 million), making it one of the more ambitious international animation collaborations involving Malaysian studios in recent years.
According to Yuki Pang, the original idea for the story came from creator Antti Haikala after witnessing an accident and imagining how a parent would cope emotionally if a similar tragedy happened to their child.
She added that Fleak itself was initially conceptualised from the form of a spider before evolving into a furry, lovable creature designed to create an emotional connection with audiences.
The film also explores imaginative concepts where ordinary household objects can become gateways to entirely different dimensions, reinforcing the importance of creativity and imagination in everyday life.
While marketed primarily as a family-friendly fantasy adventure, Fleak also carries deeper themes surrounding sibling relationships, emotional distance and unspoken family affection.
Yuki Pang said she hopes adult viewers will particularly connect with the emotional elements within the story, especially themes involving family bonds that remain strong despite time and personal differences.
Meanwhile, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad of Astro Shaw described the project as an example of how international collaboration can help elevate Malaysia’s animation industry and create larger opportunities for local talent on the global stage.
The film has already screened in more than 20 countries and Malaysia will become the first territory to release the movie in English.
Earlier, Fleak premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France, where it reportedly received highly positive audience reactions.
During post-premiere discussions, the production team also hinted that future expansion plans for the franchise are already being considered.
Yuki Pang suggested that a sequel may already be under development, while chief technology officer Jani Kuronen said the Fleak character also has strong potential to evolve into a television series.
Fleak is scheduled for nationwide cinema release on May 21.
-wilayah.com.my
