So anyway, Malaysians will still remember Yasmin Ahmad's stunner hit Sepet from 2 years ago, about Orked (Amani) who falls in love with a Chinese VCD seller, and their blossoming and tragic romance. Gubra is a sequel of sorts to Sepet, taking place a few years later. Orked is happily married to Arif, but/and things do happen, and... anyway.
I say Gubra is a sequel of sorts because it's not exactly the term I'd use. I suppose a more proper definition is that Gubra is set in the same world some time after Sepet. The issues discussed in the film are expanded, new characters in entirely different settings are introduced, like the storyline of an Imam and his wife reaching out to prostitutes. While these story lines are not physically connected, the themes of honesty/dishonesty/forgiveness/adultery do come together.
I admit, it's not easy writing a review for this film, simply because it's difficult to decide on what to review on. As I watched the film, I felt that everything was more important, and the messages more driven and forceful. Technically, the film has improved vastly in every aspect. But all the energy and potential that is conjured throughout the film is somewhat directionless. Or to put the blame on myself, I felt a bit lost as to where it all led to. The entire film then turns out to be quite a mesh of good bricks left in a pile.
Does being hurt permits one to hurt back, and to break promises? Does repentance really bring redemption? While these are idealistic questions to ask, and are sometimes reflections of reality, the film in the end still came across to me as ultimately wanting to be idealistic. I find that problematic, really. And yes, I am very stumped by the many story lines, and how its all supposed to fit together.
That being said, the good does still shine through. There are many moments where the film lets fly with its montages of romance and reflection. Nostalgia does come to heart, and the "awww" factor is clearly effective. The issues raised are good issues that needs raising, even if it is not handled in it's fullest potential. It is a thousand times better than not talking about anything at all.
It's worth a watch. Gubra is still better than most mainstream Malaysian films. It is a daring film, and for that, all credit is due to the cast and crew of Gubra.
6.5/10
