ndiaaputri

**Headline

**Rating: 7.5/10**

**Suggestion:** "Agak Laen" stands out for its quirky storytelling and relatable characters. The film captures the essence of everyday life with a comedic twist, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The humor is often spot-on, allowing viewers to connect with the characters' struggles and triumphs.

However, some plot points feel underdeveloped, leaving certain character arcs lacking depth. The pacing occasionally dips, which might disengage some viewers. Still, the film's charm lies in its ability to portray the ordinary with a whimsical touch, making it a delightful watch overall. It successfully combines humor with heart, offering valuable life lessons without being overly preachy.

Perfect Strangers is a film that has been remade multiple times across various countries. This time, Indonesia has put its own spin on the original Italian film. The plot remains unchanged: seven friends dining together face a critical challenge involving their phones and their contents. I barely remember the original film, as I last watched it 2-3 years ago, but I do recall several scenes that are almost identical to the original. The Indonesian version is quite similar to the Italian one. I liked the original, and I equally enjoyed this version.

The build-up of the story is excellent, escalating from a low point to a dramatic climax. Each character's secrets are thoroughly explored, touching on issues ranging from romantic relationships and sexual orientation to their careers. It all starts with their phones, which hold all their hidden truths. The cast delivers strong performances, particularly Darius, Vino, and Clara. The conversations flow smoothly and don't feel stiff. A remake doesn't have to follow the original exactly, and this version captures the Indonesian essence through its story, characters, and dialogues.

This biopic avoids common genre pitfalls by steering clear of hagiography. Instead, it serves as a mood piece, presenting a series of incidental scenes that intersect with significant historical events, emphasizing their impact.

The film's portrayal of its central character is subtle and poetic, mirroring the understated beauty of the narrative. The cinematography is both strong and seamlessly integrated, balancing formal beauty with naturalism. The film's naturalism is enhanced by its gentle music and focus on small, intimate moments.

Set against a backdrop of political turmoil and corruption, the film's melancholic tone is underscored by the protagonist's love for nature and tranquility, which infuses the story with genuine heart and humanity. It contrasts the calm and serenity of the protagonist's world with the pervasive corruption of the times.

"Gie" stands out for its unique approach to important themes, blending a wistful and melancholic mood with a clear political intent to create a deeply emotional portrait of its era.