Babah, a Malaysian film that dives into the struggles and love of a father for his family, is a movie that tugs at the heartstrings, even if it doesn't always hit its emotional marks. It's a sincere, genuine effort to celebrate the resilience and sacrifices of fathers, making it a story that feels personal and deeply rooted in love and care. However, its execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in its storytelling depth and pacing.
The strongest aspect of Babah lies in its heart. The film captures the journey of a father with tenderness and authenticity, portraying his sacrifices and dedication to his family in a way that feels both universal and uniquely Malaysian. The first half of the movie is especially impactful, showing the grit and perseverance of Babah as he navigates life's challenges to provide for his daughter. It's in these moments that the movie truly shines, resonating with anyone who has witnessed or experienced the quiet heroism of a father.
The wedding scene stands out as a particularly poignant moment. It's a scene that will either make you reminisce about the love and care you've received from your own dad or evoke a longing for what you wish you had. It's emotional, raw, and sincere-a perfect encapsulation of the film's intent to celebrate fatherhood.
However, the second half of Babah stumbles as the focus shifts away from the titular character to his daughter. While her story is compelling in parts, the shift feels abrupt and diminishes the emotional connection built in the first half. Babah, who should remain the heart of the story, becomes sidelined, leaving viewers longing for more depth and continuity in his journey.
The film's pacing also suffers due to frequent time jumps. Scenes that skip several years between events make the story feel fragmented and hollow, preventing moments from fully breathing. The narrative feels like a "fill in the blanks" exercise, robbing the audience of a deeper emotional connection. While some scenes stretch on for minutes, they're often followed by rushed sequences that disrupt the rhythm of the storytelling.
In terms of performances, Qi Razali is a standout as Babah. He embodies the character with such authenticity that it's impossible not to see your own father in his portrayal. His warmth, strength, and vulnerability make Babah a character worth rooting for. Sweet Qismina and Adam Lee deliver commendable performances, though Sweet's portrayal occasionally feels overdone. Cristina Suzanne, while strong in her moments, is let down by a script that doesn't fully utilize her character.
Visually, the film's color grading is a triumph. The use of a mustard yellow palette for the past and a richer, more saturated look for the present beautifully captures the essence of each era. It's a small but impactful touch that adds layers to the film's atmosphere and storytelling.
As for its emotional impact, Babah largely depends on the viewer's personal experiences. For some, it might be a tearjerker; for others, the time gaps and lack of depth might prevent full immersion in its emotional beats.
Verdict: Babah is a heartfelt film with a clear message of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of fatherhood. While it falters in depth and pacing, it's still worth watching, especially for its sincere portrayal of a father's unwavering devotion. It's a movie that celebrates family, even if it doesn't fully realize its potential.
