If successful, there will be a second one - Pierre Andre

Malaysian director Pierre Andre has pinned significant hopes on his latest horror offering, 'Nar'sata: Sekutu Setan,' which premiered on May 21. This film represents a bold step for Andre, especially after his previous directorial ventures, 'Jangan Pandang Belakang 2' and 'Dajjal: Satu Malam Dipedajal,' reportedly failed to achieve commercial success at the box office.

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I don't like making horror stories because it consumes my soul. I prefer comedy or romance. Those are genres I truly like. That's why the first film I directed was in that genre, like 1st September and I’m Not Single. But I don't know why when I make horror stories, it works.

Andre confessed that he considers both 'Jangan Pandang Belakang 2' and 'Dajjal: Satu Malam Dipedajal' to be personal failures. These experiences, however, prompted him to critically examine what audiences disliked about his previous horror films and what modern viewers actually seek in the genre. He noted the shift in viewing habits, with younger generations consuming content rapidly on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, contrasting with his own preference for slower-paced narratives, such as those found in Japanese horror.

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I consider Jangan Pandang Belakang 2 and Dajal: Satu Malam Dipedajal to be films that failed for me. But from there I started to see what was lacking, what people didn't like about horror films.

"But I have to sacrifice my interest for the taste of today's audience," Andre remarked, indicating his willingness to adapt his style to meet contemporary viewer expectations. He also outlined a contingency plan: if 'Nar'sata: Sekutu Setan' does not meet the desired standard, he intends to cease directing.

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But I have to sacrifice my interest for the taste of today's audience.

However, if the film garners strong support from the public, Andre expressed his commitment to continuing with renewed vigor. He conveyed to producer David Teo that a second film is contingent upon the current project achieving "satisfactory sales." Andre emphasized that merely breaking even is insufficient; the film must generate enough profit to fund future projects. Regarding acting, Andre stated he is not actively seeking roles, preferring to make way for younger talent, though he remains open to considering diverse characters, such as those of serial killers, if offered.

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If this film does not reach the standard I want, I will 'hang up my boots'. I already have plans, need to sell something different. But if the public supports this work, I will continue with all my might because I know there are people who want to watch the horror films I produce.