Malaysia is taking a prominent role in a new regional film production as Temple of Wishes movie prepares for its Chinese New Year 2027 cinema release.
The RM10 million production brings together Hong Kong actors Anthony Wong and Edison Chen, Taiwanese actress Nikki Hsieh, Hong Kong actor Samuel Pang, Summer Chan and Malaysian actor Zhen Ning.
More than a festive release, the project also highlights Malaysia’s place in cross-border Asian film production, with Penang and Kuala Lumpur among its filming locations.
A Regional Production With Malaysian Locations
Directed by Pei Chiek Goh, Temple of Wishes was filmed across China, Malaysia and Italy. Locations include Hengdian, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Bellagio in Italy.
The production team also built a dedicated set for several key scenes.
Goh said the screenplay was completed four years ago, making the start of production the result of several years of preparation. He credited investors, cast members and the production crew for helping bring the project to the screen.
Malaysia’s involvement gives the production a local economic dimension. International and regional shoots can create opportunities for production crews, technical workers, location services and other businesses supporting filmmaking.
Anthony Wong and Edison Chen Lead the Cast
Much of the attention around the film centres on the pairing of Anthony Wong and Edison Chen.
Goh said both actors were among his early casting choices, with their chemistry considered important to the story.
Wong, a three-time Hong Kong Film Award Best Actor winner, said the role appealed to him because it was both interesting and challenging. He also praised Chen’s preparation during filming, particularly his effort to learn Chinese dialogue.
Chen, meanwhile, is returning to film after an extended absence from the big screen.
He said the project offered a chance to find out whether acting remained something he wanted to pursue and whether audiences were still interested in seeing him on screen.
His approach to acting has also changed. Chen said he now spends more time staying focused on his character while waiting between scenes.
Malaysian Talent Takes On a Physical Challenge
Malaysian actor Zhen Ning plays the “Great General of the Temple of Wishes”, a role that came with an unusual physical demand.
His costume includes armour weighing about 20kg, while the weapon used for the character weighs another 10kg.
With limited previous experience in action films, Zhen Ning underwent special training with several instructors before filming began.
The wider cast also includes Nikki Hsieh, Samuel Pang and Summer Chan.
Hsieh said the film’s themes and story attracted her to the project, while Pang’s role marks a change from the action-heavy characters he has frequently played. It is also his first time returning to Malaysia for filming in more than two decades.
A Chinese New Year Story About Wishes and Ambition
At the centre of Temple of Wishes are two ordinary men, A-Tian and A-Le, who are struggling on the fringes of society.
They establish a temple promising to grant people their deepest wishes. The idea soon attracts worshippers from different backgrounds, bringing unexpected consequences as personal hopes and hidden desires begin to surface.
The story gradually explores the line between reality and illusion as the temple grows.
That theme gives the Chinese New Year production a slightly different direction from a conventional festive comedy, while retaining a story built around hope, ambition and human choices.
What the Production Means for Malaysia
Large regional productions can contribute to Malaysia’s creative economy beyond what audiences eventually see in cinemas.
Filming activity can support local crews, accommodation, transport, equipment providers and location services. Projects involving well-known Asian performers can also give Malaysian locations and production talent greater regional exposure.
For Penang and Kuala Lumpur, appearances in international productions may also strengthen their visibility as potential filming destinations.
The project reflects a wider opportunity for Malaysia to participate in Asian entertainment not only as a consumer market, but as a production base and source of creative talent.
Looking Towards Chinese New Year 2027
Temple of Wishes is produced by YP Entertainment Sdn Bhd and co-produced by Umi-Umi Penang. Huayang Film is handling production, while Mega Films Distribution Sdn Bhd is the distributor.
Filming in Penang has been completed, with principal photography expected to conclude by the end of September before the film moves into post-production.
Temple of Wishes is scheduled to open in cinemas on 6 February 2027, the first day of Chinese New Year.
With Malaysian locations, regional performers and a sizeable production behind it, the film also puts a spotlight on the growing connections between Malaysia and Asia’s wider creative industry.
