Writer: Erny Suzira

Writer Ratings:
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Watch this if you liked: “Between Floors”

The Good, the Bad and the In Between:

A simple film that touches on two of the major stereotypical subcultures of the Chinese community in Malaysia; an 'Ah Beng' and a 'Banana'. Despite the film being a RM70k micro budget feature, it does surprisingly well compared to other local films with a bigger budget. The directorial debut of former "Kopitiam" writer, Bernice Low focuses on Kenth Chu, a typical-minded 'Ah Beng' trapped in an elevator with Sharon Tong, a typical 'Banana'. When the two meet, hilarious situations begin to unfold as the very different individuals have to start getting along with each other while being stuck in a stranded elevator. "In Between Floors" is definitely a one-of-a-kind film with a premise that may seem simple, but turns out to be full of meaning. While the portrayal of Kenth as Ah Beng and Sharon as Banana truly reflects the stereotypical subcultures found in Malaysia, the characters themselves come with back-stories that let the audience understand that there are more to them than just the typical Ah Beng and Banana. "In Between Floors" was mostly shot at one location (the elevator), but it was never bordered on being boring. Although the film consists of only five to six cast members, each of them, especially the two leads (Alvin and Dawn) gave a remarkably convincing performance.

Look Out For:

When Kenth tries to teach Sharon how to swear in Cantonese!

Trivia:

The scene where Sharon tries to teach Kenth how to dance was not part of the original script, Alvin and Dawn added it in themselves.

Best Watched With:

Any and all Malaysians, 'Banana' or 'Ah Beng'.


Cinema Online, 20 November 2014