A surprise collaboration between Hong Kong screen legend Louis Koo and Malaysia’s very own VFX prodigy Sofyank has taken local social media by storm, following the release of a short promotional video for Koo’s upcoming film, Behind The Shadow.
The quirky yet impressive 50-second spot racked up over 1 million views in just 12 hours, quickly becoming a trending topic among Malaysian netizens across all major social media platforms.
A Dream Come True for Sofyank
For Sofyank (real name Mohamad Sofian), the experience was nothing short of surreal.
“Louis Koo is one of the first Hong Kong actors I’ve ever worked with. I grew up watching his movies — he was always the hero on TV. To now share the screen with him… it really feels like a dream come true,” Sofyank shared.
Despite Louis Koo’s packed schedule, the video shoot was completed in just under 20 minutes, thanks to both parties’ efficiency and mutual respect.
“He looked really serious and cool at first, but thankfully he was incredibly professional and down-to-earth. In fact, it was Louis who suggested some spontaneous comedic moments — including the popcorn bit and some hilarious line, ‘Behind The Window’” Sofyank added with a laugh.
Louis Koo Speaks Malay — and the Internet Loves It
The video features Sofyank walking through a cinema hallway holding popcorn, before accidentally bumping into a crowd and dropping it. Out of nowhere, Louis Koo “steps out” of a movie poster and hands him a fresh box — all while dropping some delightfully unexpected Bahasa Malaysia lines in his Cantonese-accented voice:“Jom sapot!” (Let’s support!).
Netizens were charmed. Many praised the East-meets-Southeast-Asia pairing as refreshing, fun, and culturally heartwarming.
“We asked Louis if he’d be willing to try speaking in Malay, even though it’s not a language he’s familiar with — and he was totally up for it. His willingness to try really meant a lot to all of us,” said Sofyank.
A Malaysian Production Through and Through
Behind The Shadow was shot entirely in Malaysia, with a cast and crew of nearly 100 local talents. Louis Koo previously shared his admiration for Malaysia’s film industry, noting its professionalism, quick pace and strong creative energy.
“I was honestly impressed by how committed and responsive the Malaysian crew were. It was great to see how they handled spontaneous scenes so well,” Koo said in an earlier interview.
Sofyank echoed that sentiment and expressed pride in Malaysia being the chosen backdrop for an international production.
“This film proves that it’s not just Western studios, but also those in Asia, that now recognise Malaysia’s potential. Personally, I hope to bring Malaysian creativity to the global stage. And I’m thrilled to see more international filmmakers acknowledging our local talent,” he said.
Mystery, Thrills, and Local Flavours — Behind The Shadow Hits Cinemas June 12
Directed with a psychological twist, Behind The Shadow stars Louis Koo as a detective entangled in a mysterious crime filled with suspense and unexpected turns. The film is set in recognisable Malaysian locations — from bustling night markets and food courts to schools, pedestrian bridges and urban backstreets — giving audiences a sense of familiarity wrapped in cinematic tension.
Behind The Shadow officially opens in cinemas nationwide this Thursday, 12 June 2025.
