Writer: Wahiduzzaman

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Watch this if you liked: "Anak", "Chermin"

Bewildering, enthralling and alluring - perhaps that best describes "Susuk", the much-awaited movie after two years of hanging in the balance. It looks like a good start for newcomer duo Amir Muhammad and Naeim Ghalili for such a distinctive flick. "Susuk" lines up Malaysian stars such as Best Actress Ida Nerina with Sofea Jane and Aleeza Kassim, Adlin Aman Ramlie, Hairie Othman, Noorkhiriah and a load of cameo appearances to give colour to the story, while introducing Diana Rafar.

Dealing with two characters - a trainee nurse, Soraya (Diana Rafar) and a "queen" diva, Suzana (Ida Nerina), the story is well narrated into a classy presentation that intriguing and mystical. The journeys of the two women in their lives are driven by a good flow that takes the audience along the story effortlessly. Even though the story may seem slightly complex, the full puzzle power of "Susuk" is clearly unleashed at the end of the story. It's a smart way to make a good movie!

The cast looks steady generally, except the new chap Gambit who doesn't leave an impact. Ida Nerina, flamboyant as ever, presents one of the best performances in her career. It's a simple portrayal, yet accurate. Sofea Jane, after a long break from the big screen, is still as enchanting as we remember her. Adlin Aman Ramlie delivers some pretty incredible acting. Playing the great bomoh (shaman), he portrays the mysterious and eerie looks pretty well. That's what we call "less is more". However, it's Diana Rafar on her debut movie that surprises us all. Playing the lead opposite Ida, she proves that she deserve some standing in the local scene to grow into an even better talent. It's a big challenge for her to play alongside scene-stealers like Ida, Sofea, Aleeza and Adlin, but she manages to prove her very own star value.

Admittedly, the peculiar story-telling approach made by the co-directors in this movie would cause some confusion to the audience. Nonetheless, the final 10 minutes summarises the story convincingly. Overall, it's a good effort for a mystery-thriller local treat. Two thumbs up for "Susuk"!

Cinema Online, 23 September 2008