#SHOWBIZ: Carina Lau remake? Khadam's Hong Kong title triggers social media buzz

HONG KONG: Malaysian horror film 'Khadam' is making waves in Hong Kong ahead of its cinema release on Oct 8, with much of the excitement surrounding its localised Chinese title, 'Lau Ga Ling'.

​According to reports by United Daily News and hk01, the Cantonese pronunciation of the title sounds almost identical to 'Lau Ka Ling'—the Cantonese name of legendary Hong Kong actress Carina Lau.

​The similarity has sparked lively discussions on social media and online forums, with filmgoers praising the local distributor for such a clever and amusing translation.

​Some internet users have dubbed 'Lau Ga Ling' the year's best movie title translation, while others joked that Carina Lau was making a surprise comeback to horror and should star in a Hong Kong remake of the film.

A few fans even tagged the actress online, urging the distributor to invite her to the Hong Kong premiere.

​Directed by Shamyl Othman, Khadam has been touring Southeast Asian cinemas following its initial release in Malaysia and Brunei on June 11. It has since screened in Cambodia and Singapore, made its debut in Indonesia, and will land in Hong Kong next month.

The film stars Indonesian actress Aghniny Haque in her Malaysian debut alongside Datuk Remy Ishak, Siti Khadijah Halim, Zarra Zhaff, Karl' El, and a special appearance by Jun Lojong. Set in the 1950s, the story follows Melor (Aghniny), a mother forced to inherit a saka—a demonic entity passed down through generations.

Written by Fariza Azlina Isahak and produced by Redfilms and Komet Productions, Khadam topped the Malaysian box office with RM1.2 million on its opening weekend before storming past the RM5 million mark by early July.

Its psychological depth, cultural themes, and a standout, largely dialogue-free performance by Aghniny have helped it build momentum across Asian cinemas.