The political economy of contemporary Malaysian film: a case study of two Astro Shaw productions / Irwanmazwan Ibrahim

This study focuses on the political economy of Malaysian film productions by
examining the relations between Astro Malaysia Holding and the government through
industrial policy areas, capital investment and strategic management. It investigates the
‘box-office’ achievement factors of two contemporary Malaysian films The
Journey (2014) and Polis Evo (2015), both of which are produced by Astro Shaw
Productions. The study explores the industrial features and correlations, particularly
based on marketplace circumstances and issues. The study aims to identify the close
relations between the current Malaysian film industry and inconsistent features and
unpredictable marketplaces of contemporary Malaysian film productions. It argues that
the integration and relationship between corporate-capitalism and government on issues
of policies and investment support and give rise to the lucrative and commercial
successes of the Astro Shaw productions. In-depth interviews are conducted with
industry specialists as to discover that quality content and production with the
effectiveness of corporate capital resources and the accumulation of the most essential
mechanisms of ‘box-office’ revenues. Through the case studies involving two Astro
Shaw productions, the study applies Adam Smith's theoretical framework (The Wealth
of Nations, 1776) in examining the political economy aspects. The findings indicate that
systematic practices and strategic resources administration have had a positive influence
on most investments made, and on imperative marketing and promotion with
commercialism order. Therefore, the film industry is in a need of more quality
productions that are accomplished strategically by significant capital investment for
regional market exploration as to attract a wider segment of potential audiences towards
improving revenues and sustainability of productions.