iflix Showcases Local Content Plans for Southeast Asia

First-run local movies and a slate of original series form part of iflix’s programming plans for Southeast Asia, the emerging markets OTT platform announced as APOS kicks off in Bali.

The company recently signed a first-look multiyear output deal with Skop Productions Group and Viper Studios in Malaysia. The pact will make many of the studio’s library classics available on iflix for the first time. It also brings the upcoming KL Special Force to iflix subs 20 days after the film completes its theatrical run. The service will also commission Skop to produce a miniseries, further details of which will be announced at a later date.

Working with Screenplay Productions, the studio behind the iflix exclusive movies I Love You from 38,000 Feet and Promise, the platform has ordered the series Magic Hour, an eight-part romantic teen drama. It will serve as a sequel to the 2015 box-office hit film of the same name. Also, iflix has commissioned an uncensored multi-territory stand-up comedy format that will be filmed in front of a live studio audience in Malaysia (Oi! Jaga Mulut), Indonesia (Oi! Jaga Lambe) and the Philippines (Huy! Bibig Mo).

“We at iflix are obsessively focused on the needs and interests of local consumers in each of our markets,” said Sean Carey, the chief content officer at iflix. “These new content offerings are a testament to that commitment. We are thrilled to work with local top-tier industry players to offer our members so many of the region’s top entertainment franchises while supporting them in broadening their distribution channels out of cinema. Together we aim to build a strong, supportive entertainment community that puts consumers at the forefront of our businesses.”

Mark Francis, global director of original programming, added, “iflix is in a unique position not just to make shows, but to create a positive difference to the production ecosystem. Given we’re competing for eyeballs with local broadcasters who produce huge volume, iflix has a commercial imperative to innovate with our original productions and really push the envelope. That’s going to open up a whole new level of creativity we hope our audiences, and the creative community will respond to. Change is coming.”

The platform is available in ten markets across Asia and is rolling out to MENA in association with Zain.