Writer: Nor Azliany Mohamad

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Watch this if you liked: "Seru", "Portret Mistik"

After gaining critical acclaim with the recent "Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa", KRU Studios has once again made waves on the silver screen by producing their 9th and first ever horror film "Karak" directed by Yusry Abdul Halim.

As most people are familiar with the apparent paranormal activities that take place at the Karak highway, many will find it interesting to watch a movie that is based on the scary stories and urban legends that are often heard among the Malaysian community of the said highway.

"Karak" has a storyline that is easy to understand and it doesn't require the audiences to struggle in grasping the flow of the narrative. The special effects, make-up and CGI techniques that are used in "Karak" are commendable because they manage to deliver well. The horror elements that are seen in the movie are also effective as audiences' are able to experience the 'shock-factor'.

In terms of acting, "Karak" showcases an ensemble of fresh actors who are breaking into the big screen for the very first time. However, there are certain parts where the actors could've done better. For instance, the scene where Shera Ayob gets possessed by ghost; it seems as if her mediocre reactions to the situation could have been pushed further to invoke a more scary setting. However, KRU Studios and Yusry Abdul Halim's first try at making a horror film is a commendable effort, as it will definitely scare audiences silly.

"Karak" which stars Shahir AF8, Shera Ayob, Along Ezeyndy, KilaFairy dan Sidek Hussin, follows four college students who travel from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan who then take an abandon route off Karak highway in order to escape traffic. Little do they know that the seemingly minor decision may have changed their lives forever.

Cinema Online, 27 May 2011