imdbfan-38928

Dain Said returns with a visually captivating and emotionally intense fantasy-mystery-horror in Kulit Wayang - a film that dives deep into the psyche of grief, tradition, and the unseen world of spirits and shadows. Set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of Malaysia's East Coast, this is a story that stays with you long after the final frame.

Fattah Amin delivers the best performance of his career as Ramlee, a once-renowned tok dalang (shadow puppet master) broken by the death of his beloved daughter. His portrayal of a grieving father is raw, deeply human, and emotionally arresting. With minimal dialogue and intense internal struggle, Fattah commands the screen in every scene - a quiet, tortured presence caught between memory, loss, and something darker.

Opposite him, Jenna Kamaratih gives a solid and memorable performance as a young Indonesian girl infatuated with Wayang Kulit. Her character's wide-eyed fascination with the mystical art form becomes a conduit for the audience, pulling us deeper into the symbolic and supernatural layers of the narrative. She brings warmth, curiosity, and emotional intelligence to the role, providing a delicate counterbalance to Ramlee's haunting silence.

Pekin Ibrahim & Reynavenzka also contributes a strong, grounded performance that adds to the film's layered tension and mystery.

The film's visuals are rich and textured - drenched in folklore, shadows, and natural beauty - while the soundtrack elevates the emotional and spiritual weight of the story. Every frame feels intentional, drawing from traditional elements and reworking them into a powerful modern myth.

Kulit Wayang is not just a horror film - it's a meditation on loss, legacy, and the thin, flickering line between life and afterlife. With brilliant performances, especially from Fattah Amin and Jenna and a story that is both mysterious and meaningful, this is truly a must-watch Malaysian film.

Verdict: A cinematic gem that blends culture, emotion, and mysticism - Kulit Wayang is a bold, beautiful film led by a stunning performance from Fattah Amin and a captivating turn by Jenna Kamaratih.

9/10 - Highly recommended.