Following its successful appearances at several international film festivals, fantasy-suspense film The Mage, directed by renowned Hong Kong filmmaking duo Danny Pang and Oxide Pang (the Pang Brothers), is set to open in cinemas across Malaysia on 8 October 2026, distributed locally by Mega Films Distribution.
Starring Josie Ho, Carlos Chan and Iman Taheri, and produced by Conroy Chan, The Mage marks the reunion of the Pang Brothers as co-directors after more than a decade. The acclaimed filmmaking duo is widely recognised among genre fans for works including the iconic horror franchise The Eye.
The Mage blends suspense, mystery and supernatural elements through the story of Lan Pui Ching (Josie Ho), a medium with extraordinary abilities who lives surrounded by discarded objects. Beyond its horror elements, the film explores deeper themes of trauma, loss, kindness and unconditional love.
The idea for the film was inspired by an acquaintance of Danny Pang who collected discarded objects, believing that some of them could retain connections to the spirits of people who had died suddenly.
“I first heard about this story from Danny in my kitchen,” said Josie Ho. "And it is an honour to act for the Pang brothers, who are among the best Hong Kong directors of our time.
"It was, indeed, a remarkable and unforgettable experience playing the lead role in the movie. I am even happier that many have praised the movie and all the actors in it. It has been a wonderful journey.
Playing Pui Ching required Josie to confront one of her biggest personal fears. Describing herself as extremely germophobic, the actress had to work on a set surrounded by approximately two tonnes of discarded items and rubbish, an experience that reportedly even caused her to develop a rash during filming.
For Josie, however, the movie ultimately carries a message that extends far beyond fear: "Even in the dirtiest place, you can see the good inside,” she said.
Producer Conroy Chan, who is Josie's husband, similarly emphasised that beneath its supernatural premise, The Mage carries a universal message about the importance of being good and kind to others — a value that transcends language and cultural boundaries.
The film also features Iman Taheri, whose journey into acting is particularly unusual, having previously worked as a surgeon before stepping into the film industry. Josie Ho and Conroy Chan also helped prepare Iman for the production, while his performance also caught the attention of Danny Pang.
Reflecting on the supernatural from his own perspective, Iman said: “There are things that we don't know, forces beyond our understanding.”
He also joked that the biggest supernatural occurrence during The Mage was how Josie, Conroy and the Pang Brothers managed to “turn a surgeon into an actor.”
The Mage held its world premiere at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) in South Korea, before continuing its journey across the international festival circuit. Josie Ho was also honoured with the Fantastic Icon Award at BIFAN, recognising her career and contribution to genre cinema.
The Mage was subsequently selected as the opening film of the Midnight Section at the Bangkok International Film Festival, where it screened on 14 September 2026.
The selection marked a notable milestone, with The Mage becoming the first Hong Kong-produced Chinese-language film selected to open the festival's Midnight Section.
The film's international journey also extended to the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia, one of the world's leading festivals dedicated to fantasy and genre cinema.
Distribution rights for The Mage in Taiwan and South-East Asia were acquired by CJ ENM Hong Kong, while the film will be distributed in Malaysia by Mega Films Distribution.
Malaysia is among the film's earliest South-East Asian theatrical markets, with The Mage opening in cinemas nationwide on 8 October 2026.
Combining the Pang Brothers' distinctive cinematic identity, Josie Ho's performance and a story that balances supernatural horror with human emotion, The Mage promises a genre experience that goes beyond conventional scares.
The Mage stars Josie Ho, Carlos Chan and Iman Taheri, is directed by Danny Pang and Oxide Pang (the Pang Brothers), and is produced by Conroy Chan.
