Writer: Fanaqi N.

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Watch this if you liked: “Transformers” and “Real Steel”

Looking at the poster for "Mantera", the first thought that you should dispel is this movie may look like "Transformers", except that it is anything but. Hailed as Malaysia's first international science fiction movie, "Mantera" is definitely in a whole different league of its own, and this can be either a good or bad thing.

However, that said, local fans of the science fiction genre should not pass up the opportunity to go and see for themselves how far the graphical creativity of our local talents have expanded, because it would certainly amaze you.

"Mantera" is an applause-worthy entry for Malaysia's science fiction genre because it truly stands out from the other local productions. It makes great use of graphical elements and boasts an atmospheric soundtrack that will keep your eyes glued to the screen throughout the movie.

The movie's script is solid enough to stand on its own, although it is also effectively delivered through good direction, CGI and cinematography.

Main actor Tomok (Shah Indrawan) is given the role of Azman, a naïve college student with a knack for video games. Azman is shown as a soft spoken bully victim who travels to school on a bicycle left for him by his late mother. He then falls in love with Deena, played by Shikin Kamal, a student from the robotics faculty in the same college.

Tomok is very fortunate to have his name placed on the international stage with his first acting job. However, this writer feels that the young actor still has much to learn, to fully realise as Azman and for the audience to get a better understanding of his character. On the other hand, Deena, who previously appeared in "Lagenda Budak Setan" did not disappoint here with her intonation and clear speech.

Newcomer Jayson plays Kevin, who doubles as Azman's best buddy and the comedic relief of the movie. Despite having some trouble in his fluency, he still deserves praises for delivering a noteworthy performance and making the audience laugh at his antics.

Much can be added to the script in terms of its robotic research elements when Azman is given a package from an unknown institute to save the world. The movie tells the story of Azman, who one day receives a package that contains a secret that is wanted by a group of villains known as the Communion.

With the help of Deena and Kevin, the trio discovers that the secret is a high-powered motorcycle that can transform into an intelligent robot to protect its owner from enemies.

The pacing of the story is a little rushed, and several scenes lack logic. One example of this involves Azman's Silat mentor. Another revolves the fugitive Doctor Natasya, played by Russian actress Kamaliya.

The movie runs for almost two hours, and overall, many scenes could have been added to create a more logical narrative but the sophisticated graphics from start to finish more than make up for it.

Cinema Online, 11 May 2012