Jennifer Wan (JWan)

Watched this on Netflix instead of the cinema and was glad that I didn't fork out money to do so. Although highly rated by most people, I found it extremely boring, slow and lacks depth There were just too many slow scenes without any conversations. Plot was too random without any solid 'story' and characters were introduced briefly and left (and killed off in the most random way) right after. Having said that, both male lead's acting was commendable. Abang especially was fantastic portraying a deaf mute and his scene with the monk when he lashed out was really good - for me it was the only scene in the movie which captivated me really. The movie also made me feel extremely lucky to hold a citizenship of a country, ability to go to school, work and walk freely every where. Having freedom and options is a real privilege. The movie had also successfully delivered the core message it intended to deliver - the helplessness of the undocumented, the frustrations in dealing with the public sector and generally speaking - the poor with no sight of a clear future ahead. Overall, I felt that the 'message' and two main characters were great (hence the 3 stars) but the plot and storyline was a huge bore and disappointment.

Great movie although the plot/storyline is quite standard and predictable. The pace of the story was just about right - any slower I would have gotten bored. Expected to tear up throughout the movie but didn't. There were some parts where some 'dust' entered my eyes but it was towards the end which the floodgates opened 😭😭😭 Although the plot was nothing extraordinary - I guess it was the acting; coupled with how relatable the life of the actors were which made this movie so popular and had everyone crying. The premise of the movie tells of all the challenges a typical Asian family goes through - loneliness and sickness during old age, the younger generation having their own issues and not being able to take care of their aging parents, selfishness of family members and the fact that all you need during old age is company more than anything else. Throughout the movie I am constantly reminded that we needed to appreciate our family members more and all they want is our company. Nothing else matters. And yes, there are those leeches who will be after the inheritance - something that I have personally experienced when my grandmother passed on. And how - no matter what - parents will still love their children and give them their last penny even if they are left with nothing. Note to others - it was when the grandson started singing which the floodgates started for me ...

It's been a while since I have watched a light-hearted locally produced Malaysian film and this one really hits the spot. Both Sharifah Amani and Wan Hanafi delivered their roles very well as two individuals with very different school of thoughts and personalities. There were definitely a lot of underlying messages subtly delivered in the film and I must say that I was very surprised by the boldness of the storyline and direction. I can understand why certain quarters might find this inappropriate or distasteful but for me personally this is very refreshing for a Malay film. The taboos with regards to religion, the no-questions-asked practices, the patriarchal thinking and holier than thou attitudes were all brought into question. While these are the realities of what's happening and swept under the carpet, perhaps additional scenes on how another (?) religious figure advises and points the erred to the right direction would add more depth and meaning to the film. Overall, a good watch for me and hope that there will be more of similar quality productions to come.