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REVIEW
Aug. 11, 2023
Abang Adik
Abang Adik is a poignant drama film that offers a compelling exploration of the lives of two orphans set against the backdrop of a bustling Kuala Lumpur district, that delves into themes of survival, brotherhood, and societal inequality. By: Syahmi Zulqarnain
Synopsis: Abang and Adik are undocumented orphans in Malaysia. While the older brother, a deaf mute, has resigned himself to a life of poverty, his younger sibling burns with indignation. A brutal accident upsets their relationship's fragile balance.
Length: The drama film has a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes.
Cast: The film is written and directed by Lay Jin Ong from Malaysia.
The film stars Taiwanese actor Kang Ren Wu and Malaysian singer Jack Tan as the titular brothers.
Review: Abang (Kang Ren Wu), the elder brother, is a deaf mute who earns a meagre living through honest work. Despite his challenges, he maintains a sense of dignity and responsibility. In contrast, Adik (Jack Tan), the younger sibling, takes on riskier ventures to make ends meet, engaging in illegal activities such as selling fake documents and prostitution.
Their lives are a microcosm of the marginalized community they are a part of, a community that exists on the fringes of society, barely scraping by. The film paints a vivid picture of this community's daily struggles, from their makeshift homes to their risky means of survival.
The narrative takes a gripping turn when an unexpected tragedy shakes the foundation of Abang and Adik's relationship. This traumatic event forces them to confront not only the harsh realities of their lives but also the bond that has held them together. Their journey unfolds against the backdrop of a Kuala Lumpur district, echoing with languages including Mandarin, Cantonese, Malay, English, and sign language, a testament to the cultural diversity that thrives amidst adversity.
Ong's storytelling combines elements of suspense and drama, unravelling the complexities of Abang and Adik's relationship as they grapple with the aftermath of the tragedy. The film is a poignant exploration of identity, survival, and the unbreakable ties that bind siblings in the face of adversity. Kang Ren Wu's performance as Abang is especially noteworthy, as he conveys his character's emotions primarily through facial expressions and sign language, providing a deeply affecting portrayal.
Abang Adik goes beyond the conventional portrayal of brotherhood and delves into the darker corners of society, shedding light on issues such as illegal immigration, poverty, and the desperation that often drives individuals to the fringes. With an unflinching gaze, the film exposes the vulnerability of those living on the margins while also celebrating their resilience and capacity for love.
Incorporating realist elements, the film takes audiences on a journey through the underbelly of Kuala Lumpur, highlighting both the harsh realities and the moments of shared camaraderie that characterize the lives of its characters.
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