IM NOT GANGSTER (寄生下流) (2026)

Genre: Comedy
Director: Vince Chong
Cast: Song Bill, Mark Lee, DaHee, Morn Liew, Anthony Ng, Kim Chen Wu, Adeline Wong, Yuriko, Yuniyce, Zuvia, Michie Lam, Judy Pang
Runtime: 1 hr 36 mins
Rating: TBA
Released By: Golden Village
Official Website: 

Opening Day: 26 February 2026

Synopsis: An invisible man living under the gaze of others. When fate hands him a coat that does not belong to him, he chooses to put it on. For the first time, Ah Loong tastes respect and indulges in the thrill of power. He thought he had finally escaped a life dictated by society, only to realise that this new identity is slowly consuming him. As he walks this reckless, parasitic path, is he in control of his choices, or has fate dragged him from one trap into an even deeper one?

Movie Review:

The less you know about Im Not Gangster, the better your experience will be. At the preview screening, members of the cast took pains to remind the audience not to spoil the film for others — and we echo that request here. This is one of those rare comedies where the payoff depends heavily on surprise. When the twist lands, it doesn’t just amuse; it genuinely brightens your day.

On the surface, the film appears to be a straightforward story about Ah Loong, a man who has spent his life overlooked and defined by the judgements of others. When fate forces him to step into the shoe of a gangster boss, he experiences respect, authority, and the intoxicating rush of power for the first time. The premise unfolds like a familiar underdog comedy, peppered with misunderstandings and escalating situations that hint at something bigger beneath the surface.

Then comes the turn.

Without revealing details, the narrative flips in a way that feels both cheeky and cleverly engineered. It’s a twist you may have encountered in another film before, but that doesn’t make it any less enjoyable here. What matters is execution, and director Vince Chong orchestrates the reveal with confidence and comic timing. The build-up is deliberate enough to plant subtle clues, yet breezy enough for you to follow the storyline.

So what else is there to talk about beyond that twist? Quite a lot, actually.

For audiences unfamiliar with Dissy — the hugely popular Malaysian content creator group — Im Not Gangster serves as an entertaining introduction. Their energy translates well from digital platforms to the big screen, and there is a natural camaraderie that cannot be faked. Those who loved the hit Close Ur Kopitiam (2025) will likely find even more to enjoy here, as the film doubles down on the group’s signature style: grounded, cheeky, and distinctly Malaysian.

Song Bill takes on the role of Ah Loong, once again embodying the archetype of the everyday man — flawed, slightly insecure, and occasionally out of his depth. He plays the role with an authenticity that makes the character instantly recognisable. Many guys might see a bit of themselves in him, even if they hesitate to admit it.

Placed within the film’s increasingly outrageous scenario, his relatability becomes a powerful comedic tool. Watching the poor guy drift through life trying to stay out of trouble, yet somehow always finds himself entangled in chaos, is where much of the humour flourishes.

The film is peppered with Easter eggs that reward attentive viewers, and casual audiences may miss some of these layered jokes. Singapore’s very own Mark Lee, whose media company also invested in the production, brings a welcome touch of familiarity for regional audiences. His presence bridges markets and reinforces the cross-border appeal.

Ultimately, Im Not Gangster thrives on its ingenuity. It is a Malaysian comedy that understands timing, surprise, and the importance of not overstaying its welcome. The twist alone makes it worth the ticket price, but the performances and local flavour ensure it remains engaging throughout. It is highly recommended — just remember not to spoil it.

Movie Rating:

(What starts as an underdog tale flips into something far more ingenious and unexpectedly satisfying — smart, sly, and best experienced as the best-kept secret, Im Not Gangster delivers a twist you won’t see coming)  

Review by John Li