MD Entertainment Announces 2028 ‘Pabrik Gula’ Sequel and Three 2027 IMAX Films
MD Entertainment will release a sequel to the horror hit ‘Pabrik Gula’ in early 2028 and launch three IMAX titles in 2027, signaling a major push in Southeast Asian cinema.
MD Entertainment unveiled its upcoming slate at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest, confirming a sequel to the 2025 horror sensation “Pabrik Gula.” The sequel is slated for early 2028, while the studio also announced three IMAX releases slated for 2027. The announcements follow the film’s domestic success of over 5 million tickets and its expansion into Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, the U.S. and Europe. MD’s broader strategy includes leveraging its recent $105 million acquisition of NET TV and partnerships with Lionsgate and CJ.
What happened
MD Entertainment said the “Pabrik Gula” sequel will arrive in early 2028, capitalising on the original’s more than 5 million‑ticket run and strong regional fanbase. At the same event the company outlined three IMAX titles for 2027, one of which will adapt the YouTube‑hit “Dhot Design,” a series that draws between 8 million and 10 million views per episode. The IMAX effort builds on the earlier success of “Badarawuhi,” the first Southeast Asian film shot for the format.
Beyond horror, MD plans 12 to 13 releases in 2027 across comedy, drama and animation, adding to a catalog of over 200 features. Recent acquisitions include control of free‑to‑air NET TV in a deal valued up to $105 million, and new equity from Korea’s SBS, positioning the studio for broader distribution and streaming deals.
Why it matters
The sequel and IMAX slate signal MD’s intent to dominate the regional premium‑format market, a space traditionally led by Hollywood studios. By pairing a proven horror franchise with high‑budget IMAX productions, MD can command higher ticket prices and attract international partners such as Lionsgate and CJ. Success will likely influence other Southeast Asian studios to pursue large‑scale formats and cross‑border releases, reshaping the region’s cinema economics.
- Leverages an existing blockbuster brand to reduce launch risk.
- IMAX releases can generate premium revenue and global attention.
- Strategic partnerships broaden distribution and financing options.
- High production costs may strain cash flow if box‑office expectations aren’t met.
- Rapid slate expansion could dilute marketing focus.
- Reliance on horror appeal may limit audience diversification.
How to think about it
Industry watchers should view MD’s plan as a case study in scaling a regional studio through franchise extension and premium‑format experimentation. Track ticket‑sale trends for the sequel, monitor IMAX box‑office performance, and assess how new distribution deals affect streaming licensing revenue. For investors, the key metric will be whether the higher‑margin IMAX titles offset the added production risk.
FAQ
When will the ‘Pabrik Gula’ sequel be released?+
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