Thoughts on Films

Fikri gets Muz back on the mic for the first time in a long time, as they discuss their thoughts on watching ‘Spiderman: No Way Home' in cinemas. The first part covers their respective treks to cinemas in India and Indonesia, their first time back in front of the silver screen for nearly two years. Subsequently, they touch on the film itself, with Muz excited about its connections to various cinematic universes and Fikri enthused by the film's consideration of second chances and mental health, among others.

The second of a two-parter features another three of the best of Indonesian cinema in 2021. Fikri and Nadia continue their verbal Venn diagram of films selected by The Jakarta Post and Festival Film Indonesia, settling on those they've seen. Touching on issues related to genre filmmaking and gender and sexuality, this concluding part reaches the end with ‘Arumi & Lidah Pocong', ‘Yuni' and ‘Paranoia'.

This episode is the first of two parts, looking at selected films from Indonesia in 2021. We welcome a special guest, Nadia Syarifah, whose keen interest in contemporary Indonesian cinema will guide Fikri and their discussion of films pruned from a listing by the Jakarta Post and the winners at Festival Film Indonesia, focusing on ‘Ali dan Ratu Ratu Queens', ‘Seperti Dendam, Rindu Harus Dibayar Tuntas' and ‘Nyengkuyung'.

This is the second part of a spoiler-filled discussion with Muzzamar Rahman about his film. Having discussed the narrative of ‘Prebet Sapu', Fikri and (the other) Muz discuss how important Kuala Lumpur is not just as the film's background and context, but also as the third main character of the film itself. They also get into the bigger picture political subtext, and how comfortable Muz feels portraying the bigger picture political points as one of the film's subtext.

This spoiler-filled episode is an exclusive interview with Muzzamer Rahman about his film, ‘Prebet Sapu'. Fikri and (the other) Muz sit down for an in-depth discussion about the craft and narrative of his film. The first of two parts considers the film's origins and the difficulties Muz faced in getting the story going. He also highlights the importance of the actors, Amerul Affendi and Lim Mei Fen, in shaping the film's narrative progression, especially in balancing the ethnic discussion in ‘Prebet Sapu' with other factors.

88th time's the charm! This episode is a special recording of Bebbra Mailin discussing the craft of her scriptwriting and storytelling. Made during a session with film students, it follows a screening of three of her films: ‘Langad di Odu', ‘Rapuh' and ‘Ninavau'. Along the way, Bebbra considers the personal nature of her stories and how to refine them, why it's important to be honest in your storytelling, and the scripting of fiction- and fact-based narratives.

This episode is an exclusive interview with subtitlist Iki Ali. He discusses the origins of his career as a subtitlist, the challenges he has faced thus far in his career, and how those interested may get their start in the field. Fikri and Iki also considers how certain languages may be prioritised over another (or not), how his work has affected his viewing of films, and why ‘Dune' has great subtitles. Iki did the subtitles for ‘Prebet Sapu', which will be released in cinemas on Thursday 16th December 2021.

The second of a two-parter completes Fikri and Ezzah's discussion on short films made for VIVO and the Malaysian International Film Festival. This episode focuses on ‘Burger RM15' by Muzzamer Rahman and Chong Keat Aun's ‘The Incident'. Along the way, they share their love for Adibah Noor, find the perfect candidate to play Dr. Norman Yusoff in his biopic, and delight in being mistaken as Chinese.

Recorded some time ago, Fikri and Ezzah take a closer look at a number of short films made for VIVO and the Malaysian International Film Festival. The first of two parts focuses on Nadira Ilana's ‘Mansau Ansau' and ‘The Last Thread' by Fabien Loo. The final section of the episode somehow became a rant against outlets cutting short the end credits of films, so random projectionists in Indonesia and Korea, beware!

Probably the shortest run-up to an episode, ever! Having stumbled upon ‘Secangkir Kopi Bersama Dia' by Faliq Shariff some time ago, Fikri stumbled out of bed for a lightning recording session with Muzzafar. Based on the short story of the same name by Syaihan Syafiq, it is inspired by the fact that Fikri and Muz previously made a short film, ‘Kopi Dan Dia', based on the same story. In the first half, they take a closer look at Faliq's film, looking at some similarities and differences, before recalling their experience making their film nine(!) years ago.

Another week, another episode! Fikri and Ezzah sit down to discuss selected films from the 17th Mini Film Festival. The three films are ‘Tempat Letak Kereta', ‘The Dalang's Tale' and ‘Kaalam Maari Pochu'. Nominated in the Open Category of the festival, this complements our previous coverage of the category's other films. They discuss how the films connect with Malaysian society, domestic abuse and discussions about family.

In our 82nd episode, Fikri and Ezzah share their thoughts about Chili Powder and Thinner. A short animation looking at the issue of police brutality in Malaysia, it has caused some controversy, with its producers questioned by the authorities. They discuss the filmmaking style, considering how using animation for real-life events may affect its reception. They also situate it in the Malaysian bigger picture, wondering how it may affect filmmakers in being open about their thoughts and feelings.

For this episode, we're going to go back... way back, to 1962! Fikri sits down with special guest, film historian and all-round good guy Hassan Muthalib in discussing 'Mandi Safar'. Directed by Mohd Zain Ibrahim, the film depicts a Malay tradition no longer practiced as it's deemed to be 'unIslamic'. We discuss how close the film's representation match the reality of the day, consider factors related to colonialism in the making and reading of the film, and how well it fits in with the rest of Zain Ibrahim's filmography.

Let's get ready to rumble! Fikri is back with Tony Pietra Arjuna for the second part of their discussion of his film, ‘Shadowplay'. This episode's focus is on the film's geography and distribution methods. Fikri is especially interested in the portrayal of Kuala Lumpur, and Tony divulges how the city's development transfigured the cityscape as both a location and a witness to the proceedings in the film. They also discuss how the deal to place ‘Shadowplay' on KiniDia came about, and the film's other other distribution and exhibition plans.

This episode features Tony Pietra Arjuna in the hotseat! With his film ‘Shadowplay' dropping on KiniDia, Fikri figures the time is right for an in-depth discussion into the craft of the film. The first of a two-parter, this week focuses on the narrative arc and origin, as well as how the characters are developed. Along the way, they consider the influence of David Lynch and works like ‘Run Lola Run', the importance of his previous film ‘Cuak' to this one, and whether the term ‘cloudwalker' is included because Tony couldn't get the rights to ‘skywalker'.

Back after a hiatus! Fikri and Ezzah sink their teeth into a number of juicy news bits. First up is a look at Disney+ Hotstar, which finally made its debut in Malaysia on 1st June 2021. They consider the role it plays in bring Malaysian films and television shows to new audiences, and how it fits into the local streaming landscape. In the second half, they react to Chloe Zhao's Oscar win, and wonder how Malaysians would react to one of their own doing the same.

Recorded in January 2021, this week's episode is a special look at digital technologies, identity formation and what the future might be like for media like film. Hosted by Tan Meng Yoe of Monash University, it is a follow up to a guest lecture conducted by Fikri on the same topic. Additionally, these two can't make such points without a little bit of Power Rangers chat, and on that note, may the power protect you!

The second of a two-parter features Fikri and Ezzah concluding their discussion on films from the SWANA Film Festival. Organised by Christina Hajjar and the University of Manitoba in February 2021, the films touch on issues related to diaspora, dis/connection, agency and change. Here, Fikri and Ezzah share their thoughts and feelings related to ‘The Wall' by Odette Makhlouf and Issraa Elkogali Heggstrom's ‘Nora's Cloth'.

Fikri and Ezzah return in the 75th episode of Thoughts on Films to talk about the SWANA Film Festival! Focusing on Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) films, it was curated by Christina Hajjar and hosted by the School of Art, University of Manitoba in February 2021. In addition to a poetry reading by Hala Alyan, Fikri and Ezzah take in two films from the event's second week, Suha Araj's ‘Rosa' and ‘Though I Am Silent, I Shake' by Sophie Sabet.

The 74th episode of Thoughts on Films is a discussion between Fikri and Hafiz about 'Kickflip'! Directed by Khairil M. Bahar, it tells the story of Johan, a man facing a mid-life crisis of sorts who finds solace by turning back to one of his earlier passions, skateboarding. Released in December 2020, Fikri and Hafiz talk about the film's technical qualities, how it relates to real life, and why it's much more than a skateboarding film. They also consider how it fits into Khairil's filmography, as well as other socio-cultural issues the film touches on.

Happy Lunar New Year to all! Fikri and Ezzah kick off the new cycle with a discussion of ‘Burung-Burung' by Anwar Johari Ho. Having officially premiered at the 15th Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival in November 2020, they connect the film with Anwar's previous efforts, like ‘Forget Me Not' and ‘Unforgettable' (which he produced). In addition to an analysis of the film's style and substance, Fikri and Ezzah also consider the significance of the film's locations and the idea of home, the concept of merantau, and the link between instant noodle and love.

This episode of the podcast is a special interview with Malaysian filmmaker Kan Varren. The director of 'Garang', released in 2019 and billed as Malaysia's first action film to feature difabled characters in lead roles, sits down to discuss the origins of his career and how it led him to the making of his feature film debut. He also opens up on the challenges he faced in making the film, his experience in the Indian film industry, and why the film remains a source of pride and satisfaction in the face of intense criticism.

Initially published by our sister publication CQ Magazine, this episode is a recording of a talk delivered by Riri Riza. An accomplished Indonesian filmmaker, having made numerous critical and popular successes such as 'Laskar Pelangi', 'Sokola Rimba' and 'Ada Apa Dengan Cinta? 2', he discusses the importance of cinematography and lighting. The talk was delivered in March 2015 at the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), and was organised by both FINAS and the Malaysian Society of Cinematographers (MySC).

Not long after the last one, Fikri and Ezzah are back for the 70th episode of Thoughts on Films. They dig deep into a long-planned but never-executed episode focusing on selected films from the Fat Bidin COVID-19 Mini Docs film competition! An event that ran in the middle of the year, a top-three was chosen from a shortlist of over 20. Fikri took a closer look at the podium finishers, while Ezzah (having seen them all) shared her thoughts on the best of the rest. Finally, we would like to wish our listeners Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Fikri and Ezzah get together to sembang some news of Malaysian cinema in the past weeks and months. At the forefront is a discussion about Emir Ezwan's ‘Roh' being selected as the nation's submission for the Academy Awards in 2021. This is followed by a chat about ‘Puteri Gunung Ledang' being on Netflix, powered largely by Ezzah's enthusiasm. Finally, they spend more time on Namewee's film ‘Babi' and ‘The Story of Southern Islet' by Chong Keat Aun; though both have gained acclaim elsewhere, at home they have not been received all that well…

After an unplanned hiatus, Fikri returns with a special episode in the bag! He interviews Cheng Thim Kian, a Malaysian filmmaker with not one, but two films released in 2020. In the first part, they discuss 'BEE, My Friend', looking at its theme of education and charting the journey from being a video made for a school to one that is selected for international film festivals. In the second half, they focus on 'When the Crickets Sound', a film competing in the My RODE Reel, billed as the world's largest short film competition.

Returning from a short hiatus, Fikri and Muz return with an episode looking at Emir Ezwan's film, ‘Roh'. They consider the film's technical and thematic merits, discussing ‘Roh' in the context of Malaysian horror. Along the way, Muz relates it to other films from Iran and the United States, while Fikri links it to happenings back home in Malaysia. Recorded some months ago, this episode is released now in conjunction with the exhibition of the film in Malaysian cinemas on 6th August 2020.

The 66th episode features Fikri and Muz for another chat on Malaysian cinema, beginning with commiserations on the passing of animator Rosdi bin Othman, a key part of the film ‘Legend of Ancient Borneo'. They briefly touch on updates on the new CEO of FINAS, and the official standard operating procedure for film production in Malaysia, before delving deeper into Tan Ce Ding's ‘The Masseuse'. Fikri is enamoured with the film's aesthetics, while Muz considers its links to the cyberpunk genre. Along the way, they also analyse the film's themes, how reminiscent it is of the ‘Blade Runner' and Wong Kar-wai films, and where it stands in the pantheon of Malaysian science fiction films.

The 65th episode brings with a smorgasbord of films news to discuss! Fikri and Muz sit down to talk about the appointment of Zakaria Abdul Hamid as the chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS). They also consider the other board members appointed to their roles, before considering the reasons and implications of the lack of a more official COVID-19 guideline for Malaysian filmmakers (with a brief contribution from Nadira Ilana). After the break, they briefly peruse through said guidelines for the UK and India, before delving into the true meat of this episode's sandwich: the announcement of the Snyder Cut!

Selamat Hari Raya to all! Recorded at the end of Ramadhan, this episode is a special interview with Anwar Johari Ho, the director of ‘Forget Me Not'. Fikri sits down with him (online, natch) to discuss his career thus far, and how his education journey has helped (or not) with his film one. In the second half, they delve deeper into Anwar's film, discussing issues related to Chineseness, how it relates to his own personal contexts, and the peaks and troughs experienced in making the film. Have a listen, and enjoy the episode as you enjoy your lemang (if you can find some, that is)!

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing: Hafiz Rahman! This episode sees Hafiz, a keen film fan, sit down with Fikri for a stroll down the killer memory lane that is Memories of Murder. Directed by Bong Joon-ho (probably the one filmmaker with the dreamiest of 12 months to look back on), the film tells the story of South Korea's first serial murders in history. Sparked by Hafiz's recent splurge on his films, they consider the political context of the film's setting, the film's representation of violence and gender, and correlations to real-life events. All this and more on the 63rd episode of Thoughts on Films!

For once, an episode hitting more sombre notes. Fikri and Muz sit down to discuss the recent passing of three personalities in world cinema: Irrfan Khan, Rishi Kapoor and Kamal Ishak. Part one sees the discussion of Irrfan Khan's impact, particularly through the films the boys were first introduced to him. The second half focuses more on ‘Bobby's Rishi Kapoor and the impact of that film, as well as Kamal Ishak, the Malaysian filmmaker most prominent in the 1990s with films such as ‘Cinta Kita' and ‘Penyair Malam'.

Happy Star Wars Day! For this episode, Ezzah reminisce over her trip to Tunisia a number of years ago, during which time she managed to snag a visit to the original Star Wars set. She dove deep into her thoughts and feelings at the time, including the journey of getting there and how the experience and emotions affected her. In the second half, Fikri and Muz delve into a discussion on the future of the Star Wars series, including how the conclusion of the Skywalker saga may affect their own interest, and whether it is wise to prioritise its television productions (as opposed to theatrical releases). Whatever it is, May the Fourth be with you all!

For the 60th episode, Fikri and Ezzah celebrate the festival of creativity that is the #KumanPicturesChallenge by looking at a select number of films. Organised by Kuman Pictures, it is a competition designed to encourage filmmaking under lockdown conditions, with the winners walking away with RM1,000. Given that there are over 200(!) films, we have been very personal and prejudiced in the films featured in this episode. However, while that is no guarantee of quality, we certainly had a good time in watching these films, and we hope you have a good time in listening us discuss them!

Disney+ is in town, and so are Fikri and Muz! In this episode, the guys sit down to chat about its position in the streaming landscape. Reflecting on their experience of streaming the House of Mouse, they talk about the upsides (e.g. the surprisingly low cost), as well some of the surprising downsides. In the second half, Fikri talks to Ezzah about two articles they wrote on streaming back in 2016, and consider how things have changed for them in the four years since, focusing on the streaming industry and its impact in Malaysia and Indonesia.

58 up! For this episode, Fikri and Ezzah sit down to have a chat about microdocumentaries. Inspired by Ezzah's current professional obligations, the discussion includes videos produced by the likes of Vice, Vox, and anything else that begins with the letter V. Along the way, they consider the good, the bad, and the information colonisation of the genre, as well as various regional and local alternatives. All this and more on the only film podcast in the world where you are not required to laugh at Fikri's jokes (but do so anyway)!

The 57th episode of Thoughts on Films sees Fikri and Ezzah get together to reflect on some contributions from their friends. This includes the two Muzzes, one (Muzzafar) sharing his thoughts on being inside the world's largest COVID-19 lockdown, while the other (Muzzamer) expresses his thoughts and feelings on the postponement of his film, ‘Takut Ke Tak'. We also have a listen to Lin Ariffin, one of the persons behind Aussie Malaysian TV in Melbourne, Australia, as she describes a special documentary project she is working on. Finally, Ezzah sheds more light on her experiences at Walkabout Asia, a microdocumentary channel she is currently attached to.

Though the world now has much bigger things to think about, the team gets together to discuss their feelings on the situation, shedding light on life under different types of lockdown in Malaysia and England. Coming back into the mix to do exactly that is Ezzah Mahmud, as she and Fikri consider the impact of COVID-19 on Malaysian cinema. This includes the exhibition of films cut short or postponed due to the Restricted Movement Order since 18th March 2020, as well as other significant film events. Along the way, friend of the show and Indonesian filmmaker Winaldo Swastia chimes in with his own perspective from Jakarta, including how his own film shoot has been affected.

The Winding Road is a panel discussion at the 2019 Young Filmmakers and Digital Content Forum. Though the path to making your debut feature film is filled with many challenges, many still see it as the top of the mountain, a peak to aim for in one's career. With that in mind, this episode features an in-depth discussion with Ineza Roussille (director, M for Malaysia), Muzzamer Rahman (director, Prebet Sapu) and Nadiah Hamzah (director, Motif). Having recently made their first feature films, they now shine a light for others still finding their way. The event was organised by the Institute of Arts and Media Studies Malaysia (SEMESTA), in association with the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and Malaysian Digital Film Awards (MDfA).

This week, Fikri and Muz are back to discuss the film ‘Ninavau' by Bebbra Mailin. The film enjoyed a banner year in 2019, winning numerous awards and selections for festivals in Malaysia and beyond. The boys consider the film in its own right, discussing its fine technical merits, before expanding the discussion to the bigger picture context. This includes talking about pressures on minorities, inter-religious tensions and whether it would be more accurate to discuss the concept of Bornean cinema on its own terms.

Hot off the press! Fikri and Muz take some time out to run their rule over the haves and the have nots of the 92nd Academy Awards. They consider the merits of the films they have seen (as well as those they have not), discuss briefly the process of voting in the American/Western awards season, and consider the significance of the Oscars in a global setting. More pertinently, they also consider the question of whether the success of ‘Parasite' and Bong Joon-ho is truly a victory for Asia. All this in the latest episode of (probably) the only podcast in the world to be recorded on different days at the same time!

Spoiler alert! The latest (and basically last) Star Wars film has hit the screens, and Fikri and Muz is here to give the lowdown on ‘The Rise of Skywalker'. They talk about the good, the bad, and the weird of a film that nevertheless hits a lot of the sweet spots. Along the way, they consider what they would have done differently had they been in the director's chair, and what Star Wars mean to them now that the so-called Skywalker Saga has come to an end. All this and more in the 52nd episode of (definitely not) the only podcast in the world that's not crying at the film's end, you are! Recorded on 31st December 2019.

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages: the boys are back in town! We relaunch a new season of Thoughts on Films, the podcast with an especial look on films in Malaysia and beyond. Returning for more fun are Fikri and Muz. Since the last episode nearly four and a half years ago (!), they have been this way and that throughout the globe, and this episode sees them catch up on their major cinematic experiences since half a decade ago. Without further ado, let's get cracking with the only film podcast in the world talking about films in Malaysia and beyond that's not actually based in Malaysia! Recorded on 23rd December 2019.

Ladies and gentlemen…all good things come to an end. We're not sure whether this podcast particularly qualifies as a good thing, but unfortunately it is not the exception to the rule, meaning that this 50th episode will also be our last. As such, Fikri and Muz goes back into the past, taking a closer look at what may regard as the quintessential Malaysian film ‘Mekanik'. Though there is little that needs fixing, the boys get to work one last time all the same. Sorry may well be the hardest word, but we'd argue goodbye is equally tricky. Something a lot easier to say is thank you, dear listener, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the last ever episode of the world's only film podcast in Bahasa Malaysia! Originally published on 23rd May 2015.

After a break of a few weeks, we're back with another episode! The 49th show takes a closer look at the film, ‘Puteri Gunung Ledang'. Ezzah and Fikri sat down to talk about their impressions of the film, its cultural impact, as well as the portrayal of different genders (what else?) in an interesting light. Ezzah, especially, was incredibly excited, naming this as one of her favourite films of all time, so you can be sure to be in for a fun experience on the world's only film podcast in Bahasa Malaysia! Originally published on 3rd April 2015.

Finally, we are able to sit down with Mr Fadzlie Musthafa for a long-awaited interview! We first came across his films ‘Setitis Harapan' and ‘When?' some moons ago. Attempts to interview him, however, proved to be elusive for a number of different reasons, so believe you us when we tell you that this is an interview more than half a year in the making. Unfortunately, due to technical reasons the sound quality can be a bit challenging in parts, but stick with it, for he speaks of interesting stuff with regards to the making of his films as well as the progression of his academic career. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the only podcast in the world where one half of the interview is recorded at a mamak shop! (most probably) Originally published on 15th March 2015.

Another weekend, another episode of Thoughts on Films! Ezzah returns for a second consecutive week as we train our eyes on news from in and around Malaysian cinema. Ranging from the ban of '50 Shades of Grey' to Faizal Hussein wanting to be a director, the discussion remains fun and friendly…unless your name is Eyra Rahman. Even if it is, we certainly hope you enjoy another episode of the world's only film podcast that talks about Angelina Jolie and Syamsul Yusof in the same hour! Originally published on 8th March 2015.

We waited up and got down with Ms Ezzah Mahmud, who joins us from the other side of the world (literally!). Now based in Wales, a recent review by Ezzah about a Brazilian film revealed a deep love for the Elite Squad film series. As such, we prepared the coffee, cranked up the volume, pressed the red button and deliver to you the most international episode (in terms of distance) of the world's only film podcast in Bahasa Malaysia! Originally published on 27th February 2015.

Hola the good people of the universe! Continuing on from last week, Fikri and Wina are still at that same coffee shop, talking about the films and filmmakers nominated at the 87th Academy Awards. They discuss the screenplay, cinematography, acting, directing and best film categories. You can catch the first part here, and the Oscars this coming weekend, but until then, enjoy the latest session of the world's only Bahasa Malaysia film podcast that's not done in Bahasa Malaysia! Originally published on 

We can't keep Wina away, so she's back again in this episode, where we look at the films and filmmakers of the 2015 Academy Awards! Mind you, we have not seen all of the films, so do not expect a predictions show of sorts. Rather, this will be an informal, slightly unguided and somewhat insane session of talking. Then again, that's been the recipe for quite a lot of our shows as well, so no worries there. Check it out, enjoy and Happy Lunar New Year to all our listeners! Originally published on 15th February 2015.

We're back with a special episode and a special guest! This week, we welcome Wina once again, as Fikri makes good use of his time in Jakarta. They both sit down and discuss one of Wina's secret careers: she is a television programme subtitler! Or at least, a cog in the subtitling machine, as she constantly puts it. Nevertheless, it is an important cog, and this is an important episode as Fikri and Wina discuss her experience, how she comes to hate reality shows, and why it's difficult to translate the word dog into Indonesian. Check it out! Originally published on 6th February 2015.