Writer: Fanaqi N.

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Watch this if you liked: “Sepi” and “Legenda Budak Setan”

To soul-crushing romance film fans, "Aku, Kau Dan Dia" is the perfect film for you to watch and weep about in cinemas.

Under the direction of Pierre Andre, the film tells the tale of an unfulfilled love between Ilhan, played by Pekin Ibrahim, and Mia, whose character is played by newcomer Zarina Jamalullail, and who comes into depression upon the death of her fiancee due to a car accident that befell him while he was try to cross the street.

The plot continues with Mia walking on the same road where her fiancee died to reminisce, only to meet Izlan (Remy Ishak), a busker who plays the guitar there. Shortly after the brief encounter, Izlan and the angst-ridden Mia fall in love. Mia enjoys playing the piano but is often stressed out, as she could not complete the remaining verse to her song, that is, until she hears Izlan singing the song that reminds her of the moments shared with her late fiancee. Despite so, Mia has the difficulties in accepting Izlan as she is still very much in love with Ilhan and could not forget the past that she had once shared with him, which provides much of the conflicts in their relationship. Will Izlan ever be able to compete with her feelings for her dead lover?

From the reviewer's point of view, the story leaves a significant influence, especially on those who have felt the loss of their loved ones. Pierre Andre's romantic narrative feels refreshing and sincere, especially the scenes involving Izlan and Mia. One such scene is Izlan's attempts to befriend Mia, despite Mia's reluctance in the beginning. This is because Remy Ishak is not playing the usual role of a man being pursued by a woman, but rather, a regular man who is madly in love with an aloof woman. It is also funny to see Remy Ishak professing his love in the tone of a love-struck teenage boy.

Despite being a newcomer whose talent was only polished in a Dewi Remaja contest, Zarina Jamalullail's portrayal of a sad character should deserve some credit. For someone who is making her first appearance on film for the first time, Zarina manages to hook her audience completely with her sorrowful lovelorn character who then transforms into a happier and chirpy person when Izlan finally appears in her life.

Meanwhile, veteran actor Pekin Ibrahim is always good in every film he is in. Although he does not appear in most of the scenes, his presence is strong enough to leave an impression on the audience.

Sentimental songs by Shila Hamzah, who also provided the soundtrack for the film "Dejavu", Harris Alif, Elly Mazlein and many others, would definitely send tears rolling down your face as you watch this sad romantic story.

The scripting done by Delynne Hashim is one of the factors behind the success of Pierre's film. It is because of the neatly arranged plotlines and twists that the audience was able to understand what were shown as the words used were very flowery. It is, after all, a love story.

Overall, the film is able to carve yet another niche in the local entertainment industry, especially in the romance genre. In spite of the cliches, the scripting and acting are well deserving of applause. Do not leave the cinema so soon after the film ends, as there is quite an unexpected twist after the credits and make sure you bring a pack of tissues with you before you enter the hall!

Cinema Online, 26 June 2012