Issue 12 Nov
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012
.0 10 RM
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Truth, Stories & Movies
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tun ABDUL RAZAK DATO’ HUSSIN (March 11, 1922 - January 14 1976) this issue are dedicated to
tun Dr. ISMAIL (November 4, 1915 – August 2, 1973)
Chapter one in which we review “TANDA PUTERA”
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TANDA PUTERA
Director by Datuk Paduka Shuhaimi Baba Starring by Rusdi Ramli, Zizan Nin, Che Kem Released Somewhere 2013
005
P
Words by Muhd Nazrin
erhaps it is due to the reviewer’s lack of familiarity with locally-made films, but she is pretty sure that good films, or at least, a 3-star rated one, do not look anything like “Tanda Putera”. Billed as one of Datin Paduka Shuhaimi Baba’s best, “Tanda Putera” is a feature film foray into Malaysia’s very own history, namely the 13 May 1969 Tragedy. The film tells the story of Tun Razak (Rusdi Ramli), Malaysia’s second Prime Minister and his exploits, focusing on his friendship with Tun Dr Ismail (Zizan Nin) and his battle with his advancing disease, in the midst of the country’s own political and social turmoil. The first thing that audiences should know is that “Tanda Putera” is marketed as an educational film, with extensive research done in order for the characters and events depicted in the film to be close to the truth. While this may have worked well should the film have been marketed as a documentary as well, Shuhaimi Baba and the rest of the production team have opted to label it as a fictional film as well, with elements of drama, suspense and action. What could have been an excellent cinema verite-styled film ended up being a convoluted mess, with various scenes of momentous occasions such as the initial sparks of the racial wars, Tun Razak’s rise to power as the second Prime Minister and the creation of Malaysian Airlines System, mashed unevenly together within the 2-hour running time. For the more patriotic audiences, “Tanda Putera” works, but that is exactly the problem: the film was
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made for the patriotic. “Tanda Putera” assumes you already buy into Malaysia’s eventful and at time tragic history, where countless lives and blood have been shed in order to create the country that it is today, coupled with old footage to provide the film the required authenticity. For everyone else, who perhaps are dragged into watching this, this film holds little else other than the half-baked computer-generated imagery and scripting. The term ‘half-baked’ is used to describe “Tanda Putera” because it tries to do everything yet throws in the towel before it does. For example, there are numerous scenes in the film that depicts the violence done by the locals and communists, but these scenes are spattered with numerous cuts that are done not so tastefully that in the end it ends up being implied violence. Coupled with the erratic pacing of the narrative, the violence seems even more senseless and ‘out of nowhere’. Although not all films need achieve Quentin Tarantino-level of violence, but considering that the film promotes itself as ‘the film to educate audiences on the horrors of the 13 May 1969 Tragedy’, its eagerness to please censors for a P13 rating is worthy of a snort. In addition, the frequent use of flashbacks and dream sequences seems a tad unnecessary, not to mention painful to watch because they are so poorly executed. I say necessary because the director has to cram everything into the two hour period, but unnecessary because they could have just made the film longer or stuck to the scenes that they have chosen instead of trying to please
“MY TEAM AND I DID A LOT OF RESEARCH,TO MAKE SURE THE SCENES WERE BACKED BY HISTORICAL FACTS,”
007
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“It has been painful for us to receive such negative comments, especially from young Malaysians who made judgments after watching the trailer,” said Shuhaimi. everyone by padding out the film. On the other hand, Shuhaimi has incorporated a few satirical touches in her film that will surely bring a smile to locals, such as the jab at Tun Dr. Mahathir. If there is anything that “Tanda Putera” does well, it is the casting. Rusdi Ramli stars as a despairing yet determined leader who did his best to protect his country. He is the embodiment of the late Tun Razak, from his mannerisms down to his resolve to save Malaysia amid all the unhappy people desperate for a lifeline and his ailing condition. Meanwhile, Zizan Nin is superb as Tun Dr Ismail, his best friend and trusted right hand man, whose condition is also faltering, but nevertheless, he endeavours to hide it as best he could from Tun Razak and trudge on. However, the rest of the cast are not so memorable. In conclusion, there are incredible performances from the cast all round, particularly Rusdi Ramli as Tun Razak and Zizan Nin as his best friend and aide, Tun Dr Ismail, but the subject matter that “Tanda Putera” eschews is ultimately, a tad too sensitive to make for effective film material.
Synopsis A historical film based on true events in Malaysia. It recounts the close friendship between the second Prime Minister, Tun Abdul Razak and his second-in-command, Tun Dr Ismail who are forced to put their personal issues aside and concentrate on restoring the country after the tragedy of 13 May 1969. Tun Razak, who is suffering from leukaemia, hides his illness from his family because he did not want them to be burdened, as well as for the sake of the country. He shares a doctor with Tun Dr Ismail, and the two are treated in the latter’s study room by Dr Macpherson in secret. Despite knowing that he will die within two years, Tun Razak is thankful for Tun Dr Ismail, his most trusted, who promised to continue his legacy of rebuilding the country after his death as well as look after his family. But when an unexpected incident strikes that also causes his health to take a turn for the worse, Tun Razak is forced into a race against time to carry out his plans...
Anticipation. Any new film from Suhaimi Baba is a cinematic event, and Tanda Putera comes with politician controversial. Enjoyment. This is another biopic film which potrayal iconic Politician and part of Malaysia History.
5 3 009
Chapter two in which we introduce ourselves.
KALEURS LAB
minimalist . enthusiasm . artistry
Editor
Creative Director
Zarith Arfya
Sahrul Ridzwan
Muhd Nazrin
shrlrdzwn@kaleurslab.com.my
zarith@kaleurslab.com.my
Designers
Junior Editor
Shrlrdzwn & MNazrin
Yui
design@kaleurslab.com.my
Associate Editor
yui@kaleurslab.com.my
mnazrin@kaleurslab.com.my
Editorial Intern
Contributor
Zamarul
Mohd. Kamal bin Abdullah, BissmeTheSun Heliza
zam@kaleurslab.com.my
Words, pictures, thanks...
Cinema Malaysia, FilemKita, CinemaOnline, Wikifilm, PersonaPicture Sdn Bhd,etc..
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Chapter three in which we discuss themes of uncommon interest inpired by our feature film.
Between Historical, Biographical & Political Controversial
THE
IMPORTANT
CHAPTER DIRECTOR DATUK PADUKA SHUHAIMI BABA CAPTURED THE TRUTH MOMENT TRAVELS IN MOTION.
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Before the release of the film, the film sparked controversies about the accuracy of its contents of the film after the release of the trailer in relation to the May 13 riots. Due to sensitivity in political manners, the film it was has started with some controversial even its still not release yet.
We get closed to the director, Datin Paduka Shuhaimi Baba or friendly called Shumi, to reveal the story behind this controversial and to understands the film itself. “I wanted the younger generation to be aware of the May 13 incident, how racial riots almost destroyed our country and why we shouldn’t let this happen again.” she said. We must now selfishly safeguard the peace of this country. “This is not a political film. It’s a film about humanity. No country in the world has faced a similar situation like ours, where both the prime minister and deputy prime minister had to brace a critical illness (Razak was suffering from leukaemia and Ismail had a heart problem) while having to handle tension among various racial groups.
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“These leaders put the nation before their health. There were allegations that Razak had orchestrated the racial riots just to win the election. But I believe that was impossible.” I don’t understand much about politics. But what I do know is that in politics, you have camps and you want to safeguard your power base, so you create conspiracy theories. Our research shows that after Singapore left Malaysia (in 1965), there had been many efforts to destabilise this country. The young people today do not understand that at that time, the threat of communism and radical elements were very real. It’s difficult to imagine the situation today, because our country is so peaceful now.
*Comments have been made that you make the Chinese look bad in this film. What do you have to say to that? You cannot judge the entire film by just looking at the trailer. In the movie, I highlight the communists who create chaos but I also feature Ma-
lay gangsters who cause discord too. There is also a rally before the 1969 election where some people are singing songs that praise Mao Tse-tung. Some are holding placards that belittle the Malays. It’s clear the rival groups are going beyond the limit. What upset me most were the remarks I received (via Facebook). They were racist, rude and vulgar. I didn’t create those images in the film out of nothing. I have done much research [on the subject].” I learnt of Razak’s great love for the people, especially the poor and the destitute. He always carried a book with him wherever he went. The book was called The Pathology of Leadership and it tells about leaders around the world who are suffering from critical illnesses and how they are dealing with it. These leaders believed that they should not make their ailments public as it could destabilise the country. So, Razak kept his illness a secret because he didn’t want to weaken the country. As for Ismail, I found out that he had given his Chinese maid a loan so that she could buy her own house. Apparently, she is still keeping the house in remembrance of Ismail.
I was also always under the impression that it was Tunku Abdul Rahman who gave former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad the boot from Umno. “But I was wrong. It was Ismail.” *Is there any other historical event in our country that you would like to make a film on? I would like to make a film on how Mahathir saved our country from economic disaster in 1998 when the world economy crashed. Then there was the sacking of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim by Mahathir, which gave rise to another dramatic chronology of events in Malaysia’s history.
Tanda Putera means "Mark of a Leader"
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“Incurable Hero”
I
t doesn’t make sense at to postpone the release of the movie because of “activities”. It was previewed to a selected audience including media on 17 July. Almost all who prevalently exited out from the cinema after the movie screened, were teary-eyed. They saw how the two leaders’ challenges and sacrifices to put Malaysia back on the rail towards unity, togetherness, progress and most important of all, mending the wounds of bloody racial riot of 13-16 May in the path of challenges from the extremists, subversive elements and communist terrorism. And all agreed that Tanda Putera is a great movie and its sense of historical events and all the mitigating circumstances of these events should be portrayed to Malaysians, especially the younger generation, so that the nation shall not repeat these events.
If it is that good, then it should sell. Malaysians would want to see this movie. In short, it would be a very commercially viable, come-what-may what ever ‘activities’ that some would think that it would distract or impair the sale-ability of this movie. The minister-in-charge of Information, Communications and Multimedia, who is also responsible for the archives and antiquities, should ensure that the movie is out during this Hari Raya Aidil Fitri period, which also co-incide with school holidays. The Minister should use all the media available and friendly to him to promote and ‘sell’ this movie. More over, when National Film Board (FINAS) and Multimedia Development Corporation (MDEC) are collaborative partners to Pesona Production in making this much awaited movie happened. Unless the minister-in-charge has some political motives for not being bold enough to challenge the younger Malaysians’ reaction as an outcome from the public screening of this
movie. Then, the Prime Minister should be aware of what Tun Dr Ismail used to sound out if he had to face such an issue or situation; “Don’t sweep things under the carpet”. It is a matter of principle. Majority of Malaysians don’t even know what Tun Razak did, how he did it and what challenges he faced. Let alone Tun Dr Ismail. His service as the Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister only lasted a little over four years. The duos’ contribution to what Malaysia is today from the decisions made within the five-and-half years are immense and very strategic. Some of their policies are still implemented till present day, as important tools of nation building. Screen this movie. It is worth it. Commercially worth it. Historically worth it. Yes, to some people the truth hurts. But to majority of the people, this movie is so enlightening. Better to bite the bullet now, than later. It is the perfect ‘gift’ for Malaysians in this 55 years commemoration of nationhood.
Words by Mohd. Kamal bin Abdullah
<<
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OTISM I R T PA
S S
1957
Hati Malaya HEART of MALAYA
A Shuhaimi Baba’s film
1957: Hati Malaya (Malay for 1957: Heart of Malaya) is a Malaysian historical film released on 25 October 2007.
The film goes back and forth as it transits from the current day Malaysia to the struggling Tanah Melayu then Malaya back in the mid 1940s up to the moment of independence. Because the story evolves around the picture book, many of its scenes connect through photographs captured during the actual event. I think that’s what made the the
script stronger. The sets were properly designed and props used were all necessary in order to bring the mood to live, although Kg Baru was a bit too surreal. Costumes worn by the actors made me felt like going down to the tailor to get one myself too. An Almost perfect mise en scene.... And of course, Suhaimi Baba’s films would always have good cinematography.
Throughout the film, viewers will find several events that may have been forgotten. The fact that the story in the film was built from Dato’ Onn’s struggle to gather the people is already an essence to the film. I feel that often times when we talk about independence, typically the one person that would come to mind is the late Tunku Abdul Rahman and often that we forget to acknowledge the figures that were less famous but had struggled for the same cause as well . The film recalls forgotten characters and moments that took part in the route to independence. The casting for this film is excellent. Maya Karin and Rusdi Ramli is once again paired up after ‘Waris Jari Hantu’ and ‘Pontianak Harum Sundal Malam 2”. Well, their onscreen chemistry is quite visible. I think Maya Karin has onscreen pesona on top of an agreeable talent in acting. Her eyes is very expressive that you can tell her emotions at a particular time by just looking into her eyes. Her eye movements and stretches can be very demure. I have yet to see that in Heliza. Maybe she does have that but then again, beautiful eyes does not mean it has character. The actors that played the 2 ‘Heroes’ are just relatively new or rather unknown names Zaefrul Nordin (Dato’ Onn Ja’afar) and Kamarulzaman Taib (Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj). But despite being the underdog, their performances are simply remarkable. Well, considering that they had to potray personalities we all familiar with. Director : Datuk Paduka Shuhaimi Baba Producer Company : Pesona Pictures Sdn. Bhd. Language : Malay categories : Feature Film Genre : History, Patriotic
Classification : U - General viewing for all ages Duration : 117 min Audio : Dolby Format : 35mm
BUKIT KEPONG
Based on the true story about the hard-fought battle between the police force and the locals against the communists at Bukit Kepong, in the year 1950. The battle reaches its climax on 23 February at the Bukit Kepong police station, which has only 18 members, when they are attacked by 180 violent communists. Directed by Jins Shamsuddin, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bukit Kepongâ&#x20AC;? won the Best Film Award in the 3rd Malaysian Film Festival in 1982. Jins played Sergeant Jamil Mohd Shah, one of the 25 who were killed on Feb 23 1950, when 180 communists attacked a police station in Bukit Ke-
pong, near the Muar River, Johor, just before dawn.
Director : Jins Shamsudin Producer Company : Jins Shamsudin Productions Sdn. Bhd. Language : Malay Categories : Feature Film Genre : Patriotic, History, Action, War Classification : U - General viewing for all ages Release Date : 1982 Duration : 120 min Format : 35mm
S
S
MIRROR R O R R I M IF TA N D A PUTERA HAS LEFT YOU REFLECTING ON THE PAT R I O TISM OF YOUR SOUL, T RY THESE C U LT- C L A S S I C S PAT R I O T I C FILMS.
SARJAN HASSAN (1958)
LEFTENAN ADNAN (2000)
Hassan was 10 years old when his father died. His mother died when he was much younger. His late father’s employer took pity and took him in under his care and guidance. However, his son Aziz felt envious and soon grew up with ill feelings towards Hassan. When they grew up, Aziz and Buang (Salleh Kamil) often find trouble with Hassan. Salmah fell in love with Hassan which made Aziz even angrier.
This is a film about a Malaysian soldier, Lt. Adnan, who gave his life in defending Malaya from the Japanese invasion during World War II. It exemplifies an example of the patriotic spirit that should be in every Malaysian. Lt. Adnan was a courageous individual who was willing to give everything, including his life, for the people and nation. He also succeeded in destroying the widely held myth that Malays were good only as rebels and pirates. He believed that no matter what, as a patriotic citizen, one had to fight until the last drop of blood to defend the nation.
DIRECTOR BY TAN SRI P.RAMLEE, LAMBERTO AVELLANA
When II was at Malaya’s doorstep, the “Askar Melayu” called for volunteers. Aziz and Hassan responded but Hassan was forced to stay to take care of the plantation by his step father. The village people started calling him a coward. Hassan decided to run away and become a soldier when he couldn’t stand the heckling any longer. Hassan proved to be an able soldier and was soon promoted to the rank of Sergeant. When the Japanese attacked Malaya, Hassan fought bravely with his comrades and even rescued Aziz when he became a POW. In the meantime, Buang decided to betray his own people and joined the Japanese as a Kempeitai. Buang used his position to harass the village people and forced Salmah to marry him. Did Hassan managed to save Salmah in time?
DIRECTOR BY AZIZ M.OSMAN
EMBUN (2002)
DIRECTOR BY ERMA FATIMA
Set in Malaya during the Japanese occupation in the 1940s, this film tells the story of a girl, Embun, who’s thrown into the forefront of the struggle against the Japanese when her freedomfighter brother, Bayu, and father are detained by the Japanese. In the midst of it all, she’s also caught in a romantic liaison with the Japanese army public relations man, Koishi, who is assigned to explain the Japanese propaganda to the Malays and win their support. Koishi also has a personal mission to fulfils in Malaya: to find the Malay man who married his mother (in other words, his father) when she served as a Japanese spy prior to the occupation.
PALOH (2003)
DIRECTOR BY ADMAN SALLEH
Set during the confrontation between the Japanese Army and the Communist Party of Malaya in the year 1944. Four friends - Ahmad, Osman , Puteh and Harun choose to serve the Japanese Police Force in order to survive. Amidst a sea of uncertainties, Ahmad falls in love with Siew Lan and Puteh falls in love with Fatimah - both girls from different worlds , different cultures, even opposing sides. And Osman - a friend of theirs and a spy for the Japanese Police - chooses to serve his own vendetta.
Chapter four in which we review the latest film & upcoming releases.
Istanbul Aku Datang Director by Bernard Chauly, Rafidah Abdullah Starring by Lisa Surihani, Beto Kusyairy, Tomok, Aizat Released November 2012
A trip to Istanbul inspired writer-actor-host Rafidah Abdullah to make a Korean style comedy movie titled “Istanbul Aku Datang!”. In the beginning, the film plays out like most romantic comedies, where the girl takes a trip overseas in order to find her boyfriend in the hopes of studying together and eventually, getting married. Dian (Lisa Surihani) is also an urban blogger who constantly updates her status on her blog. Sounds like 80% of the female population in Kuala Lumpur right? But that is not all. Even their love story plays out like a fairytale with Dian being the childish yet endearing personality while Azad (Tomok) is slightly nerdy.
The only difference is the quality of the cinematography in “Istanbul Aku Datang” compared with other local films, which looks expensive and breathtaking. Bernard Chauly’s filming in Istabul for two weeks has paid off with its present ability to attract audiences with the gorgeous scenery that cannot be found locally. Applause should also be given to the costume designer as he or she managed to bring out a different side of Lisa Surihani, one that is still a young girl at heart who is still studying but has elaborate plans in making her dream wedding become a reality. However, what the writer is waiting for is the appearance of Harris, who is played by Beto
Kusyairy. It is still not known what it is about him that appeals him to viewers so much so that they scream whenever he comes onscreen. Perhaps it is his romantic nature, which is the personality that was given to Harris, and which works, despite the fact that Beto plays it so casually. In the writer’s opinion, Beto should be classed as one of the new generation of Romeos that may surpass Rosyam Nor. Written by Rafidah Abdullah, the contemporary phrases that are thrown around are more than appropriate for the contemporary story. Last but not least, the theme song of the film is also fitting and well done, titled “Aku Datang” by Tomok.
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Rock Ooo
(Rimba Bara Kembali) (NOT RATE YET)
Director by Mamat Khalid Starring by Que Haidar, Khir Rahman, Shoffi Jikan, Pekin Released January 2013
R
ock Ooo is a sequel from Rock (2005) directed by Mamat Khalid. It’s still a story about the band called Rimba Bara as the main subject and they were about to kick-ass the stage back. This time Amy Mat Piah (played by Que Haidar) who was the vocalist for the band ambitiously want to reform the band after Zack (lead guitar) left the band to focus his marriage life. The film set still in 80’s rock vibes. Mamat want viewers to
travel back in time when the 80’s ruled by rock era. The song, as the main subject of the film were the best-picked to give a musical taste itself. Some of the song would be an epic nostalgic to the viewers and not to forget to the fashion. More leather jeans, patches jackets, Glam-Hairdo to give a real picture of that era especially on its hey-day. What is rock without fashion huh? With the great promising actor, were this film ready to rock back it ass out?
Anticipation. The biopic musical comedy of the year perhaps.
4
Enjoyment. Nostalgic package in one movie especially for ex-Rockers in 80’s era.
5
In Retrospect. This film very lightly to the Malaysia viewers.
2
Jiwa Taiko Director by Osman Ali Starring by Remy Ishak, Bront Palarae Released June 2012
His mistakes may have landed him in jail, but for Firman, it is also the catalyst for a new beginning in life. Trisya is a girl who longs to be loved, but it is only when she meets the one that she realizes that true love is not a bed of roses. Freez is a carefree guy who only thinks about hanging out with his friends and being happy, while Lara is a
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free spirit who wants to make her way in the world on her own. The four of them meet in Wira Cinta, a club that is owned by Kak Pora where all of them learn martial arts from and also discover themselves, when Pinto, Firman’s brother-in-arms from his dark past turns up at the club and demands that Firman returns to the gang or face the consequences. Os-
man Ali’s “Jiwa Taiko” is a social drama about discovering the meaning of friendship and love, which is often taken for granted. Overall, Osman Ali gave his best to make this film one with its own strengths rather than cliche, accompanied by good performances from all the cast and a strong plot. It is hoped that with this film, it will give audience some food for thought on what is shown here, and they can see for themselves
KIL
(NOT RATE YET)
Director by Nik Amir Mustapha Produced by Rewan Ishak, Jeremy Little Starring by Redza Minhat, Cristina Suzanne Stockstill Released TBA
Akil (KIL) is a depressed young man who has suicidal tendencies. But, he could never bring himself to commit suicide. His attempts to die always fail miserably until he finds the perfect solution: A quirky assassination agency that helps kill suicidal people. KIL agrees with the terms of the company. The assassination will be anonymous. He wouldn’t know the details about who the assassin is, even when or where he will die. This was ideal for KIL, until he falls for a girl he meets, Zara. Suddenly, he starts to have second thoughts on taking his life. The one-liner for Flux Visual’s KIL simply states it’s a feel good movie about a suicidal young man. Watching the first few seconds of the trailer, you’d get a strong indie flick vibe off it –
depressed protagonist whose life changes after meeting manic pixie chick, heck it’s even complete with mournful indie soundtrack. By the time you realised that there’s a company specialising in suicidal aid in the movie, the trailer immediately switches gear to high-concept thriller. Stars Redza Minhat (Pisau Cukur, numerous plays) and newcomer Cristina Suzanne Stockstill, whose Bambi eyes are destined for Zooey Deschanel-level of fame among hipsters, and directed by Nik Amir Musta-
pha. KIL will see release sometime this year.
Anticipation. A must see indie vibe film. Enjoyment. A very well Cinematography looks to give a very good shot. In Retrospect. Could be a kickstart for a young filmakers to make more such as this genre.
Sepah The Movie Director by Rosli Starring by Jepp Sepah, Shuib Sepah, Mamat Sepah Released November 2012 (NOT RATE YET)
Jepp Sepah, Shuib Sepah and Mamat Sepah star in this film as three bumbling motorcross racers who are best friends that also work in the same electronics manufacturing company. Of course, like all unusually close male friends, they are also single, which sets up the stage for conflicts when the trio fall for their beautiful new trainer named
Ayu Sofea (Anzalna). To make things worse, the trio face tough competition in the form of their new manager, Based (Jehan Miskin), who is not only rich, educated and good-looking, he is also nists, much so when there are three protagonists. Jepp, Shuib and Mathe head of a shady motorcross gang. mat, in their similarly named characters, are not delightful or endearing to watch as they fumble and stumble their way through scene after It is not good form for a movie when scene. While for some films, blame can be heaped upon either the writthe antagonist turns out to be much ing or the acting, but in the case of “Sepah The Movie”, it is hard to more likeable than the main protago- distinguish which for there is hardly any plot or dialogue to comment
033
Zaiton Ceritaku Director by Esma Daniel Starring by Nadia Aqilah, Norlia Ghani, Wan Maimunah Released November 2012
I
sma Daniel replaces Fauziah Nawi in the director’s chair for the film adaptation of the biography “Zaiton: Ceritaku”. The film tells the life story of primadonna Zaiton Sameon, whose name used to be a household name once upon a time. Known for her song “Menaruh Harapan”, the singing sensation was at the height of her career when a tragic incident befell her in the year 1990, which led to the downfall of her popularity and the death of her son Irwan. The film opens with her performing that song in a concert in 1990, and the camera, probably thinking of that opening shot in Boogie Nights, follows her from the stage to the
034 Tanda Putera Issue
dressing room in one uninterrupted shot. The actress who plays Zaiton is musical performer Nadia Aqilah, who is making her film debut. Nadia has Zaiton’s hairstyle down pat, but is less curvaceous than the latter. Zaiton remained in a coma for three months after the accident. When she wakes up, she is beset with problems, and having amnesia is the least of them. Director Esma Danial Mohd Isa’s favourite shot is to film a scene in a house through the windows looking in. There’s a nice shot as the camera moves from the argument upstairs to show Zaiton hearin g it downstairs. The singer’s road to recovery is not smooth and there
are bumps along the way, including her mother (Norlia Ghani) getting injured while bathing her. Her younger brother Shamsul (Karl Shafek Ibrahim) looks out for her and also encourages her to regain her footing in the world, so to speak. Viewers who aren’t familiar with Zaiton’s story will wonder if this film is about a down-and-out woman rather or the life of a former top singer. There’s no background story or the fact that she won a 1987 contest on the back of Menaruh Harapan. When Zaiton performs in the film, she mainly sings that song. In fact, this film is more about the economic troubles of a rejected female singer. Zaiton should have sung She Works Hard For The Money?
S W NE ---Words by Zamarul
Afdlin Shauki urgently needs support 12 Nov - Seeing as Malaysian filmmakers are worried about poor box office results since the beginning of the year, famous comediandirector Afdlin Shauki urged locals to lend a helping hand by paying to watch his latest horror comedy titled “Pontianak VS Orang Minyak” in cinemas in order to overcome the serious slump in the local film industry.
“Movie is my life, it is our passion. I can tell you that one day if our Malaysian films are not getting good reception from audiences, we would have to stop making stories for the big screen because we would not have enough funding,” said Shauki.
FINAS and GAFIM agree on FFM25 8 Nov – The conflict involving the National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) and The Federation of Film Professionals Association of Malaysia (GAFIM) on the issue of organising the 25th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM25) has finally come to an end.
GAFIM sent a report regarding organising FFM24 last year, but a consensus has been reached in a meeting held on 5 November between the two parties.
“The issue has been taken care of and both GAFIM and FINAS have agreed to cooperate in organising FFM25 and celebrating its silver jubilee this year. According to FINAS Director-General, Mohd Na- “Honestly, it was not our intention to dismiss the role guib Razak, a misunderstanding had occurred after of GAFIM in co-organising FFM in the previous years.
TV & Film Workshop with KIX
Nov 11 - KIX hosting a crazy 2 hour workshop as part of the SHOUT MOVEMENT at Publika. They were to talk about our creative process and work for the 1st hour and then they have make a crazy video for the 2nd hour! Entries are free and for all ages. The Kix team consist of three individuals who really put up the team as to create a videography lots of fun.
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