Genting Highlands will soon witness the convergence of the who’s who in the Asian cinematic industry as the 61st Asia-Pacific Film Festival (APFF61) takes centrestage from 29 November to 1 December 2024. Nestled amidst the cool mist of the popular hilltop retreat, the Wyndham Ion Majestic – the highest altitude hotel in Malaysia, as recorded in the Malaysia Book of Records – will play host to this glittering event, offering a harmonious blend of cinematic fanfare, star power, luxe hospitality, and the glitzy appeal within the confines of the hotel’s spaces and Grand Ballroom – which is also the largest banquet hall in Malaysia today.
For those with a discerning eye for pop culture and an appreciation for fine living, this plays out as an invitation to escape the mundane and experience the extraordinary. While the screenings and ceremonies are closed to the public, there exists an unparalleled opportunity for cinephiles and travellers to share the space with legends and rising stars of Asian cinema. For three days, the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel will present guests with the possibility of serendipitous encounters with the icons of Asian film.
Indera makes haunting debut
The cool air atop Genting Highlands will not be the only thing bringing the chills during the festival, which opens with the highly anticipated Malaysian horror film, Indera. Starring a trio of exceptional talents – Shaheizy Sam, Azira Shafinaz, and Samara Kenzo – the film is set to captivate audiences with its chilling narrative and gripping performances.
Honouring the “Dai Goh Dai” of Asian cinema
APFF61 will also shine a spotlight on the legends of Asian cinema. Among them is martial arts megastar, Sammo Hung. Receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the festival, Sammo Hung is revered as the “Dai Goh Dai” (big big brother) of Asian martial arts cinema. His presence at the festival offers fans a rare chance to celebrate one of the most influential figures in global cinema.
Celebrating the genius behind Hong Kong’s golden era of comedy
The festival will also honour producer and actor, Raymond Wong with the Asia-Pacific Outstanding Filmmaker Honorary Award. An architect of laughter and emotion through his work, Wong is one of the most successful producers in Hong Kong cinema with his sharp wit.
When glamour meets grandeur
Other notable personalities who have confirmed their attendance is award-winning director Clifton Ko, the name behind notable films such as Wonder Mama, Dearest Anita, and All’s Well, Ends Well. Also attending the festival as members of the jury include General Manager of Taipei Post-Production Tony Hu, Malaysian film producer Shamin Yusof and Australian actor Campbell Graham.
An invitation to experience the magic
For guests staying at the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel from 29 November to 1 December, the excitement extends beyond the festival halls. For starters, they will enjoy top-notch hospitality, with unrivalled experiences such as the opportunity to enjoy the majestic and scenic views of the Titiwangsa mountain range from all around the hotel, even right from the privacy of the room balcony!
Meanwhile, imagine catching a glimpse of stars crossing paths in the lobby, or sharing a moment within the hotel’s sky-high dining spaces, such as the Ambrosia – which also boasts stunning views – or enjoying a warm dip in the hotel’s heated infinity pool. This proximity transforms a staycation into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where cinematic dreams and reality blur seamlessly. It’s quite literally and figuratively having your head in the clouds, 6,000 feet above sea level.
Beyond its stunning vistas, the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel boasts a host of meticulously crafted facilities, tastefully appointed rooms, exquisite food and beverage offerings and unrivalled hospitality designed to cater to every guest’s whim and desire.
It is here, at the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel Genting Highlands, amidst the mist and the magic, that stories come alive, both on and off the screen.
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