iamianiman

Lembayung, starring the ever-promising Anna Jobling, is not your typical horror film. From the outset, it sets itself apart with a storyline that doesn't lean on tired tropes of haunted houses or exorcisms. Instead, it boldly delves into themes of sexual harassment, consent, and female empowerment-topics rarely explored in commercial horror films. This fresh approach is the film's biggest strength, offering a narrative weight that feels significant, yet never overbearing for a mass-market audience. The writers deserve commendation for crafting a story that resonates on such a profound level while still retaining its entertainment value.

Anna Jobling shines in her role, proving herself as a fast learner and a formidable talent. Her performance reflects growth and a deeper understanding of her craft, particularly in scenes that demand vulnerability and intensity. Her ghostly portrayal, while limited by makeup and CGI shortcomings, is a testament to her ability to elevate material through sheer presence.

Unfortunately, Lembayung stumbles in its technical execution. The makeup and CGI, while nostalgic in their intent, fall short of delivering the chilling visuals that today's audiences expect. The effort to use practical effects over heavy reliance on CGI is appreciated, evoking memories of classic horror films. Yet, the execution lacked finesse, leaving much to be desired.

The film's pacing and tonal shifts, however, are where it truly falters. Lembayung begins with a promising buildup-moody, atmospheric, and genuinely unsettling. But as the story progresses, the scares fade, replaced by moments of unintentional humor. By the time the climax rolls around, the film veers into chaos, with loose plotting and over-the-top creative decisions that undermine its initial promise. Characters benefit from improbable plot armor, and the climactic resolution feels rushed and unearned, leaving audiences scratching their heads rather than gripping their seats.

For those expecting consistent thrills, the slow pacing and diminishing scare factor may disappoint. The film, though moderately interesting in its narrative, fails to sustain the tension needed to keep viewers on edge. The gradual shift from eerie to absurd undoes much of the excellent groundwork laid in the first act, leaving a sense of unmet potential.

Verdict: Lembayung is a paradox-a film that starts strong but progressively loses its way. It's a brave attempt to inject meaningful themes into the horror genre, and for that alone, it deserves recognition. However, its technical flaws and uneven storytelling hold it back from being truly memorable. While Anna Jobling's performance and the film's unique ideation stand out, Lembayung ultimately feels like a missed opportunity, teetering on the edge of greatness but never quite reaching it.

Kahar Kapla High Council is not just a prequel; it's an unflinching dive into the brutal and chaotic world that shaped one of Project High Council's most iconic characters. This film doesn't hold back-it's raw, relentless, and packed with intensity, offering a visceral cinematic experience that's both thrilling and haunting.

From the opening sequence, you're thrust into a world defined by violence, survival, and unspoken codes of honor. The fight scenes in this movie are a masterclass in choreography and sound design. Each punch lands with a force that feels palpable, every hit reverberating with authenticity. There's nothing glossy or staged here-just raw, gritty combat that feels painfully real. For fans of action and high-stakes drama, Kahar delivers some of the best fight sequences seen in Malaysian cinema.

At the heart of the chaos is Amir Ahnaf, who gives a tour de force performance as Kahar. He fully embodies the character's madness, pain, and ferocity, delivering a portrayal so compelling that it's impossible to look away. Amir's ability to oscillate between seething anger and haunting vulnerability is nothing short of brilliant. Whether through his expressive eyes or the sheer physicality of his performance, he commands every scene he's in.

Alongside Amir, Aedy Ashraf brings depth and tension to the screen, although there are moments when the dialect choices feel slightly forced. The supporting cast-Sky Iskandar, Khenobu, Thompson Goh, Fazziq Muqris, and Fadhli Masoot-add layers to the narrative, each carving out memorable moments. While Sky and the newcomers hold their own admirably, a few characters feel underutilized. Certain story arcs vanish mid-film, leaving intriguing potential unrealized.

Visually, the film is ambitious. It utilizes dynamic techniques like slow-motion, close-ups, and arc shots to heighten its dramatic beats. One standout sequence near the end recalls the energy of West Side Story, as opposing groups converge in a mesmerizing display of shadows, tempo, and choreography. These creative decisions elevate the movie's cinematic quality, making it clear that this isn't just another local action flick-it's a carefully crafted visual experience.

However, not everything lands perfectly. The first act struggles to establish the emotional weight needed to fully invest in Kahar's transformation. While the film hints at mental health struggles and societal pressures, it doesn't explore them deeply enough to leave a lasting impact. This lack of emotional grounding means that some pivotal moments, meant to evoke tears or introspection, fall flat for certain viewers. There's a story there, but it feels like it's rushing to the finish line rather than letting us sit with Kahar's pain and evolution.

The film also misses an opportunity to lean into a grittier aesthetic. The color grading, while polished, feels overly saturated for a story meant to portray rawness and despair. A more muted palette could have amplified the film's themes and matched its brutal narrative tone.

Despite its shortcomings, Kahar Kapla High Council remains a gripping prequel that expands the Project High Council universe with flair. The action is visceral, the performances-particularly from Amir Ahnaf-are standout, and the story offers enough twists and tension to keep audiences hooked.

Verdict: Kahar Kapla High Council is a bold and gritty exploration of what shapes a man into a monster. While it stumbles in fully fleshing out its emotional core, the film's breathtaking fight sequences, creative direction, and standout performances make it a must-watch for fans of the original series and action cinema alike. It's a gritty, unflinching exploration of violence, power, and survival-a captivating journey into the origins of a legend.

There's something special about a story that takes the fantastical and makes it feel achingly real. Wicked, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, casts a spell that doesn't just transport you to the world of Oz-it pulls you into a tale of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery that lingers long after the final note fades.

From the very first scene, it's clear that Wicked isn't just a musical-it's an experience. The songs don't overwhelm the story; they blend seamlessly with the dialogue, creating a rhythm that's as natural as it is enchanting. This balance is rare in musicals, and it's what makes Wicked so exceptional. Think The Greatest Showman... yes, now you get it.

At its heart are two women who couldn't be more different yet are bound by a connection that changes them forever. Cynthia Erivo's Elphaba is a powerhouse of vulnerability and strength, a character who's been cast aside and judged for her differences. Erivo doesn't just play Elphaba; she becomes her. Every note, every glance, every heartbreak feels raw and real.

And then there's Ariana Grande as Glinda. If you've ever doubted Grande's acting chops, prepare to be proven wrong. Her Glinda is charmingly narcissistic, with a heart buried beneath layers of self-absorption that only Elphaba can bring to the surface. Watching Grande navigate Glinda's quirks and insecurities is pure joy. She's funny, lovable, and utterly magnetic, and her voice? It soars.

But what truly sets Wicked apart is its portrayal of friendship. There's no need for grand speeches or clichéd declarations-the story unfolds through actions, unspoken emotions, and, of course, music. Every shared glance, every sacrifice, every melody is a testament to the bond between these two women. It's rare to see a musical lean so heavily on the power of relationships without veering into sentimentality, and Wicked nails it.

Visually, the film is a marvel. The sets are grand yet immersive, bursting with color and life, making Oz feel like a place you could reach out and touch. It's fantasy at its finest-vibrant, majestic, and brimming with energy. You can feel the effort poured into every frame, from the sweeping landscapes to the intricate costumes.

Of course, no film is without its flaws. At nearly three hours, the runtime is indulgent, and a few scenes drag more than they should. And while the songs are beautiful, they don't have the staying power of The Greatest Showman or La La Land. Some emotional moments are slightly undercut by abrupt musical transitions, making them feel less impactful than they could have been.

But these are minor quibbles in a film that delivers so much. Wicked is more than a musical-it's a celebration of humanity, filled with themes of acceptance, equality, and the power of friendship. It's a story that resonates, especially for anyone who's ever felt like an outsider.

By the end, you won't just be humming the tunes-you'll be reflecting on the journey, the emotions, and the connections that make life meaningful.

Verdict: Wicked is a spellbinding journey of friendship, identity, and perseverance, brought to life through stunning visuals and heartfelt performances. While its runtime occasionally lingers and its songs may not all be instant classics, the film's charm, emotional depth, and magical storytelling shine through. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to this world, Wicked offers an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave you inspired, enchanted, and humming long after the credits roll. However, for those who aren't fans of musicals, this one may not cast the same spell.