New WWII Monster Movie ‘Orang Ikan’ Trailer Features Dean Fujioka

The upcoming historical monster film, "Orang Ikan," directed and written by Mike Wiluan, is set to make its world premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival’s Gala section. The film is a gripping tale set in 1942 in the Pacific, following a Japanese soldier named Saito and a British prisoner-of-war named Bronson, who find themselves stranded on a deserted island, pursued by a deadly creature known as the "Orang Ikan."

Starring actor-musician Dean Fujioka and Callum Woodhouse, the film delves into the harrowing journey of Saito and Bronson, who, after surviving a torpedo attack on their ship by Allied submarines, wash ashore on the remote island. There, they must navigate the treacherous terrain while being hunted by the menacing Orang Ikan.

The production of "Orang Ikan" is a collaborative effort, with Freddie Yeo, Tan Fong Cheng, and Fumie Suzuki Lancaster serving as producers. Notably, Eric Khoo, known for his work on "Spirit World," is also part of the film’s producing team, adding depth and expertise to the project.

The film’s narrative draws inspiration from early monster films like Jack Arnold’s "Creature from the Black Lagoon," melding it with elements of Malay folklore and documented sightings by Japanese occupying forces in East Indonesia during World War II. According to Wiluan, the film aims to offer an Asian perspective on the creature horror genre, intertwining themes of brotherhood and humanity amidst the backdrop of the wartime reality.

"Orang Ikan" is slated to have its European premiere at the Trieste Science + Fiction Festival in the Asteroid Competition, followed by its Southeast Asian premiere at the Singapore International Film Festival. Wiluan’s vision for the film encapsulates a blend of horror, survival, and camaraderie, echoing the sentiments explored in John Boorman’s classic film "Hell in the Pacific."

With its unique blend of historical context, folklore, and creature horror, "Orang Ikan" promises to captivate audiences with its gripping storyline and thematic depth. As the film gears up for its premiere on the international stage, viewers can anticipate a cinematic experience that transcends traditional genre boundaries, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human resilience and the bonds that unite us in the face of adversity.