Writer: Wahiduzzaman

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Effects: NA
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Watch this if you liked: "Powder", "The Elephant Man", "Taare Zameen Par"

Finally there's something refreshing for the local audience! "Pensil", the first baby of new director cum actor M. Subash goes beyond the cliches in most local films. It offers the audience good content that values humanity. The film is loaded with strong messages and good emotional play. With no hunks nor beautiful faces in the cast line-up, M. Subash proves that a good script and effective acting are all that matters to make a good movie.

At first glance, "Pensil" seems commercially unappealing. With virtual unknown M. Subash as the lead, together with veteran faces (as opposed to young stars) Ruminah Sidek, Maimon Mutalib, Khatijah Tan and Jalil Hamid as the backbone, the movie doesn't seem much to shout about. However, the proverb goes - never to judge the book by its cover. What is featured behind the unconvincing and dull film poster is completely different. Subash actually made a wise decision when he selected the veterans in "Pensil" because these otais displayed a stunning performance! It's so natural, spontaneous and effective.

Although the story is not exactly groundbreaking, the strength of "Pensil" lies in the brilliant play of its cast. Subash in his debut attempt at a full-length feature film has showed what a good actor he is. The man managed to deliver a convincing portrayal of a handicapped guy named Badrul. The rest of the line-up including Ruminah Sidek, Maimon Mutalib, Khatijah Tan and Jalil Hamid need no introduction on their acting calibre. Ruminah, affectionately known as Mak Mah, plays the grandmother of Badrul and displayed a mesmerising take on the character. The experience under her belt really shows. Khatijah and Maimon succeed in inviting our disgust when they play the meanie roles. Meanwhile Jalil Hamid with his haggard looks is spot on! I personally feel that Subash has done a great job in casting since the line-up was dead on for their respective characters.

If you're looking for a different dish with local flavours, then "Pensil" will whet your movie appetite. The modest production gives us some food for thought, some you might never forget.

Cinema Online, 23 September 2008