While I'm not the biggest fan of the Dilan series, I decided to watch Ancika to follow the continuation of the previous movie, unaware that it would be the final installment in the series. After viewing it, I opted to write a review as it turned out to be one of the finest Indonesian movies I've ever seen.
In terms of plot development, Ancika follows a similar trajectory to the other films in the series. The protagonists get to know each other, fall in love, and encounter familiar conflicts, often stemming from Dilan's immaturity. However, in this movie, the conflicts are not as major or impactful as in previous movies, mainly because Dilan has matured from his past relationships.
Not only that, the movie has a notable drawback in its pacing, giving the impression that the producer is trying to conclude the series hastily. This results in certain points feeling rushed. It stands in contrast to the previous movies, where we witnessed a detailed progression in the main characters' relationship. Perhaps, this difference arises because they had to condense the narrative into a single movie instead of the three movies that were available for the earlier parts of the series. It's unfortunate that the pacing didn't allow for a more thorough exploration of the potential in the relationship between the two main characters.
While this plot may seem repetitive and rushed, particularly for those familiar with the series, the movie's excellence lies in its conclusion. Despite not being a die-hard fan of the series, I found myself deeply moved by the ending, shedding tears of satisfaction and joy. The main reason is that we finally get to see Dilan transform into a decent person while retaining his characteristic humor and uniqueness, ultimately finding his other half.
Concerning the characters, I was initially skeptical about the casting changes. However, I was easily proven wrong, for the new actors had successfully retain the charisma and features of their predecessors. Despite their commendable acting skills, a slight lack is felt, not due to their performance, but because the previous actors had already become synonymous with the characters. Setting that aside, the new cast manages to portray the characters with only minor flaws here and there.
In summary, while the movie Ancika maintains the familiar plot trajectory of the Dilan series and struggles with pacing issues, it stands out as one of the finest Indonesian movies solely for its satisfying conclusion. Dilan's growth and the adept portrayal of characters by the new cast contribute to the film's success. Despite minor flaws and the challenge of stepping into the shoes of the previous actors, the new cast manages to deliver a commendable performance, providing a fitting end to the beloved series for fans out there.
