Abang Adik

I didn't get a chance to catch this movie when it was in cinemas last year, but thanks to Netflix, I now understand why it was so hyped. I won't delve into the plot, but it's a very gritty and uncompromising look at the issue of stateless residents in Malaysia. For those living outside of Asia, and especially outside of Malaysia, it might be hard to grasp the crucial role that official identity documents play in citizens' daily lives. Without an ID, you can't attend school, get a job, open a bank account, get a phone line, or do much of anything.

In addition to the brilliant performances by the cast, Pudu (the part of Kuala Lumpur unflatteringly depicted in the movie) should also be considered a main character. Its markets, back alleys, and low-cost flats have never looked so good on film. Only in this part of KL could a story involving a melting pot of people from different ethnicities, languages (I counted 5 to 6 different languages or dialects used in the movie), and genders be so convincingly set.

All in all, a very good Malaysian movie that succeeds in bringing attention to a myriad of social issues that are plaguing the invisible segments of our modern society.

This film managed to collect RM5.2 million within 24 days of screening in Malaysia and made history as the first Malaysian film to break the screening record in Taiwan by collecting more than RM13.5 million.

A local Malaysian film that, for me, almost reached the level of a local masterpiece.

The movie started off really well that it gave me high expectations throughout, coupled with the quality cinematography and soundtracks.

The story is actually very simple. The 'Abang' and 'Adik' wishes to live like ordinary citizens in Malaysia but the lack of citizenship status and Identity Card (IC) prevents that, showcasing how hard it is to live like them.

One thing that I disliked and which I think can be improved is the second act of the movie where the accident happened. The writing is not strong and convincing enough, Abang seems to be acting out of character, the story feels rushed and there were scenes that are too 'draggy'.

Despite that, the film managed to build a good emotional connection with the main characters from the beginning of the story and the strong performance by Wu Kang Ren and Jack Tan easily made it happen. So when I got to the end of the movie, I really teared up and cried, trying to understand Abang's feelings.

I like movies that touch on the aspects of society like this. Although it is not perfect, it gives a small picture of life in Malaysia that some people may not know. We need more local Malaysian films like this. No need for fancy effects, just solid writing.

This movie is a masterpiece that will cause emotions that will stay with you. Certain scenes in this movie make your jaw drop. It is so deep that it makes you reflect on yourself, on life, the world around you, on the differences and similarities between us humans, on what it means to be human, what it means to be grateful. This is a very deep and raw movie showing us the beauty in humankind, the ugliness, and the despair. It depicts how unforgiving, complex and terrifying life is no matter what good or bad of a person you are! Depending on "what life" has been "given" to you, as Abang mentions, you cannot judge anyone, or can't even blame yourself regarding life.. This movie make you think if we will ever know answers to some of the "whys" in this life... and make you think about what it means to be human.

During this movie, I found myself feeling deep sadness and love for humanity. But definitely a deep level of sadness and helplessness for us humans.

The cast is just chef's kiss! I especially enjoyed the brothers' relationship and the character portrayals were magnificent. KUDOS TO THE ACTORS, DIRECTOR, WRITER, CAMERA CREW etc.! The characters and message is so simple yet so deep and the story's pain and impact will always stay with me. Thank you for this masterpiece. I am hoping for an Oscar.

The story depicts the lives of the lowest strata of society in the city of Pudu KL. It seems the editors and directors went to extremes in portraying the most tragic stories to create a sense of being oppressed by life-a deaf-mute, an undocumented person, someone deprived of love, socially ostracized, and misunderstood. Despite all this, living in such an environment, the protagonist continues to offer unconditional love to those around him, caring for everyone. However, I'd like to say this story didn't convey the proper moral values. I must commend the male lead actor who played the deaf-mute. His portrayal, the numbness to express love, and inner struggles in his acting were impeccable, he did excellently well. The second person I loved was the actor portraying the one who raised the two brothers. His performance was incredibly natural. Kudos to these two actors. As for the second male lead, his overacting was a bit too much, suddenly sentimental, the next scene he was abruptly irritable. Sometimes silent and chill, while other times playfully happy and easy-going. I couldn't have a full grasp the character that he was to portray, not sure if this was intended act required by the director, or an underperformance by the actor. All in all, acting for the male lead, a solid 10/10. Overall acting, 8/10. Storyline, it's weak, there were loopholes here and there, so I'd give it a 5/10. This movie deserves a modest 8/10. I wasn't moved, just left sighing, thinking it could have been better.

Director and writer Jin Ong does a spectacular job at weaving a Malaysian tapestry of untold stories of undocumented citizens.

The cinematography and lighting of every scene was immaculate, perfectly capturing the essence of every moment.

I notice other reviews commenting about the poor pacing of the movie but I beg to differ. Firstly, I felt it was needed to leave questions in the audience's minds, and the pacing reflected the pace of Malaysian life in Pudu well. I personally appreciated those "slow" scenes because it's the little things and nuances that made the film so Malaysian and kept Malaysians like myself and my family enthralled and immersed into those scenes.

To the team, thank you for putting Malaysia on the map globally. For all the good and right reasons. To Jin Ong if you ever read this, thank you. For your vision, hope, and relentless pursuit in making this movie come to life. We Malaysians appreciate you from the bottom of our hearts.