Writer: Dzamira Dzafri

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Watch this if you liked: "The Secret Window" and murder mysteries.

Not many local films are up to standard with Hollywood films, but "Psiko: Pencuri Hati" stood out and will probably be one of the local films to remember for a long time. The director, Nam Ron, who is new to commercial film directing, was only directing theatre and independent films before this which explains why the story and plot was so important in the film.

This is also one of the films where it's best that you know as little about it as possible before you watch it. It is an unconventional murder mystery and fans of the genre will probably be thrilled and excited for it at the cinema because even if you did want to know more about it, the synopsis is vague but interesting enough for you to be intrigued by it.

One of the first things that you'll notice when you watch the film is Bront Palarae. Aside from him being extremely attractive (which is already one of the best reasons why you should watch it), his performance in the film draws you in but also keeps you a few feet away because you'll feel unsure about how safe his character really is.

For Sharifah Amani, the well-known actress' performance is still as great as her last. She held her own in the film as a depressed woman with an interest in mystery novels and smoking, and you were afraid that Bront's performance would overshadow her but it seems like they are both on the same level.

The only person who would be a little less than outstanding in the film was Syed Hussein as the husband of Sharifah Amani's character, but seeing as the other two were already hard to beat it should really bother him because he was still pretty great, especially during the monologue at the end which still gives the reviewer shivers everytime she thinks about it.

Amerul Affendi, who plays Bront's character Sidi's friend Man, was also as entertaining and watchable as his co-stars. The whole cast, starring and supporting, deserves praise because not one of them was less than perfect for their own roles.

All of the roles had more than just one dimension in the story as you go along, which is very difficult to find in a film. You get to see two or more sides to each character and it was a good intense hour and a half at the movies when you can't tell what anyone will do next.

Another great thing about this film was the strange but beautiful cinematography. It isn't too obscure and uncomfortable, it was clear enough to help you concentrate on the story better and pretty enough to make you notice it.

The reviewer really can't say too much about the plot, all she can say is how good the story and the overall film is and it is definitely one of the Malaysian films that you need to watch, just to experience it. It is also a must watch to all fans of murder, mysteries or both and it will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. For those of you who have never had any experience with local films, "Psiko: Pencuri Hati" is a good film to get you started.


Cinema Online, 28 August 2013