Henley Hii takes on the dual role of lead actor and producer in director Chai Sun Min's film "Eight Dollar Millionaire", leading actors Joanne Yew, Singapore's famous comedian Mark Lee (Cheng Swee Hui), “Silly Leopard” Chen Junquan, Chen Peijiang, April Chow, May Ho, and Lamdojo. Together, they present this year's Christmas production, a blend of fantasy and warmth, with laughter and tears. For his first time as a producer, Henley Hii played multiple roles in this movie, revisiting his singer identity to perform movie songs "I Love My Sweetie" and "Van Gogh's Starry Night."
Henley Hii returned to his hometown in East Malaysia to shoot the film, with most of the cast and crew from Sabah and Sarawak, hoping to showcase more about East Malaysia's culture and landscapes through the lens. Additionally, Henley Hii contributed to songwriting for the film, presenting "I Love My Sweetie" in homage to the classic "Tian Mi Mi," and the song is sung by the entire cast, creating a full atmosphere.
Henley Hii revealed that the song was written even before filming started, initially intending to perform solo. However, inspired by the lively and cheerful atmosphere of the crew, he decided to have everyone join in singing: “Everyone singing together helps convey the joy and happiness in the movie.”
Additionally, the movie's theme song "Van Gogh's Starry Night" is a duet between Henley Hii and electronic music goddess Priscilla Abby. It’s a ballad, marking their first collaboration in singing a love song, and nearly led to a "king avoiding the empress" scenario in the studio. Henley Hii explained that Priscilla was expected to take about three hours, but with her remarkable musical talent, she finished in less than an hour, putting pressure on him.
Priscilla Abby humorously said, “My speed in learning and practicing songs is quite fast. After listening a few times, I could sing it, so the recording finished quickly.” She joked, “I wanted to relax a bit in the studio, but they kept urging me out because Henley Hii was next, maybe he was shy?” Henley Hii responded, “She recorded so well and quickly, meaning she sang really well! I wanted her to leave to focus on my singing since it was quite stressful!”
Speaking of the collaboration, Henley Hii expressed his excitement: “I’ve always known Priscilla is from East Malaysia, and since "Eight Dollar Millionaire" is an East Malaysian production, having her perform the movie song is even more meaningful.” When asked if they spent a lot to invite Priscilla, Henley Hii laughed: “She was very kind with her fee and showed kindness. I believe her singing will greatly enhance our movie!”
This opportunity also excited Priscilla Abby: “I’ve always wanted to participate in movie-related work, and singing a movie theme song is a big step forward. I hope to have the chance to act in films in the future!” After this project, they became good friends, and Henley Hii will guest at Priscilla’s concerts. Both hailing from East Malaysia, they hope to promote its beauty through this film for more people to learn about this land.
Joanne Yew also shared the excitement of the group singing: “Our laughter nearly blew the roof off the studio. The biggest gain from reuniting with Henley Hii is the joy both on and off set, a rare filming atmosphere.” She confessed that performing “I Love My Sweetie” reminded her of her late aunt: “My aunt’s favorite song was "Tian Mi Mi." I feel a bit sad each time I hear it. "I Love My Sweetie" breaths new life into this classic song with joy and happiness. It’s as if finding new life in the melody. If music can carry memories, then this song adds warmth to the memories I have with my aunt.”
"Eight Dollar Millionaire" tells the story of a man who unintentionally gets a wallet that makes him rich overnight. What mysterious power does this wallet hold? The movie will hit theaters across Malaysia on January 2nd next year with laughter-packed scenes!