DATUK Seri Anwar Ibrahim's war on corruption has been memorialised in a film called Anwar.
Produced by Indonesia's Bianglala Entertainment, Anwar is directed by Viva Westi. It features actors Farid Kamil, Acha Septriasa, Hasnul Rahmat, Piet Pagau and Dewi Irawan.
On playing the main character, Farid remarked many reasons compelled him to accept the role.
"Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is a great statesman known all over the world. I didn't have to think twice.
"But, my main concern is his reaction upon watching the film.
"Why would I refuse this opportunity? It's a dream come true for Malaysian actors to greater heights in the region as well as globally," he said.
Playing a Malaysian political figure for an Indonesian production helmed by Viva was an intriguing experience, added Farid.
"Viva and her team are the best. Apart from working with the crew, I also collaborated with great actors such as Acha Septriasa."
Anwar has been in the works since August 2011 and is now in the final stages of production. It is set to open in theatres early next year.
Set in the period between 1993 and 1998, the film is based on a true story and its plot details Anwar's fight against a corrupt system.
The film also shows his firm resolve in refusing payoffs and cash from prominent businessmen.
It tells how Anwar would not draw upon public coffers to bail out a minister's children's companies which were bleeding billions of ringgit.
As a result, he was slandered as part of a bigger conspiracy. He was also fired from public service, beaten up in police custody and was left without treatment for several days.
From a renowned finance minister who unshackled Malaysia from debt, he was eventually sent behind bars. – The Vibes, November 9, 2022