Takluk: Lahad Datu

Storyline is based on a real standoff between Malaysian Police and militant terrorists in 2013 which resulted in the loss of 8 police officers.

When the efforts of making peace and stability was ruined and the terrorists did not want to negotiate further. Malaysian Police Special Forces, VAT69 Commandos faced a strong opposition which had experience in guerrilla warfare and jungle training.

The sacrifises and fighting spirit of VAT69, together with officers from PGA and Intelligence Branch, faces struggle through the villages with battles after one another as they tried to push forward towards the end.

I don't know what they're trying to show here, it's not realistic at all, as for the gore and events it is acceptable and accurate, because

First of all: the environment it is nothing like sabahan village in the first battle at the rurals. As for the people/villagers are included, it is nothing like sabahan, even if they do not show any sabahan officers/fighters there at least show who's in dangerous situations and who's they're trying to protect.

Second: the antagonist (Sulu king) Historically, yes they do speak Malay like Brunei, to be accurate as possible but their portraiture is nothing alike it, more to some random kind of Malay gangster

Third: the storyline Like I said, I don't know what they're trying to show, and weirdly enough, it's not accurate at all, I can barely say 70% of this arent actually happen like how they potrayed, like don't they ask advice or the true story from the ones who experienced it??

Fourth: the lack of pride Honestly, I should say this movie is not good because they don't know what they're showing, it is nothing like mat kilau, pendekar Awang, bukit Kepong, leftenan Adnan or sarjan hassan. Because those ones didn't actually show random things they're doing in their daily lives (such as: "when you're going get married?" & "What if your child is a girl") but rather focusing on the pride and true memorial of the heroes.

Overall this movie definitely need higher improvements on the storyline and hidden messages as I've seen almost no hidden messages they're pointing up to. But you're into good action and fighting choreography, I recommend you to watch it, but if you're into patriotic pride like me, I suggest not to watch it as it would disappoint you if you're read the actual events from the documentary.

I give this movie solid 4/10 only good in cinematic and action.

A film that takes your breath away. A mix of emotions. Anger. Revenge. Fear. Sadness. A nearly perfect action film. Tagline " 69 ! Komando ! "

A must-watch film if you're someone who wants to see the struggle of a police force in defending peace, even if it means leaving their families behind and possibly sacrificing their lives. The ending is okay but not as climactic as previous war films.

Visually captivating. Some scenes are terrifying. Impressive audio. Packed with action. Lively performances. Suspenseful. Especially during the negotiation between the police and the rebel leader Raja Iskandar, brilliantly portrayed by Eman Manan.

Lemme just start by - for a film to be based on Sabah district and the Audacity to cast NOT ONE Sabahan is just rude. Not even for minor roles, at least one of the PDRM? Why does Saiful, a character that apparently lives around the area anyway, needs to be KL-slanged? As a Sabahan watching the film, i felt rather detached. They be trying to do "diversity" by bringing in chinese and indians but i see no dusun? No suluk? No bugis? Hello?

For some reason the backstories-tropes - i see what its trying to do but it is so "obvious" in a sense that it makes you think "oh they gonna die" and when "it" happens it doesnt give me the shock factor. So the execution is very much so-so.

Speaking of "obviousness" - certain things need not be said. Its the need to explain every-single-thing thats borderline insulting audience's intelligence. If youve spent an X amount of numbers watching movies, youd understand why you'll never drink drinks served by enemies. One does not need to verbally explain it on the scene - cringe. Even if you had to do it, at least in hints or something.

*Chef's kiss* to Eman Manan performance. Top-notch acting right down to his accent. Syafiq Kyle is Syafiq Kyle, hes brilliant anyway as always but my god Josiah was unbearable. So cringe so "get him off screen pls" for me.

"Takluk Lahad Datu" is an emotionally charged film inspired by the real-life events of the 2013 Lahad Datu standoff, where Malaysian security forces bravely confronted a group of terrorists. Directed with a clear vision, the movie shines a spotlight on the sacrifices made by the nation's heroes in defending their homeland.

The plot is straightforward, chronicling the invasion and the government's response. While it doesn't indulge in complex twists, it succeeds in keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The pacing is spot on, providing a balanced mix of drama and action that evokes strong emotional reactions and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The performances by prominent actors like Shafiq Kyle, Eman Manan, and Kamal Adli are top-notch. They bring authenticity and depth to their roles, making the struggles of the characters feel palpable and real. The emotional stakes are further elevated by excellent cinematography and a powerful musical score that complements the tension-filled scenes perfectly.

Despite its many strengths, the movie does have a few areas that could be improved. More time spent on character development would have allowed the audience to connect more deeply with some of the secondary characters. Additionally, while the action sequences are adequate, the gunfights and close-quarters combat could have been more refined to heighten the intensity of the confrontations.

The film ends on a cliffhanger, leaving some questions unanswered and creating a sense of unfinished business, which may leave viewers slightly unsatisfied. However, it also opens the door for a potential sequel, something I'm eagerly looking forward to.

Overall, "Takluk Lahad Datu" is an impressive Malaysian movie that blends drama, action, and patriotism. For those interested in seeing how the nation stood strong against a ruthless invasion, this is a must-watch. Congratulations to the filmmakers on a job well done.

-Muaddib Uzul-