The relationship between a father and daughter in Malaysia can be unique, making it hard for locals to relate to foreign films that explore this theme.
The recently released local movie “Babah” offers a great opportunity for viewers to dive into this topic with ease. With director Mohd Shah Faizul Ibrahim at the helm, “Babah” beautifully balances the perspectives of a father and daughter through relatable scenes that look as if they were happening in your own home.
Qi Razali shines in the title role of a father with auditory disabilities that require him to wear a hearing aid. Audiences will quickly be moved by what he is willing to do to put a smile on his child’s face, even when the odds are stacked against him.
The story begins with the birth of Maya, Babah’s daughter, played by child actor Kis Aisha during her primary school years, and by Sweet Qismina in her teenage and adult years. Viewers are invited to witness Babah and his family’s journey over time, from Maya’s childhood to adulthood. The premise is simple but the execution is tastefully and effectively done.
The first of Babah’s many sacrifices is highlighted in the story behind the film’s poster above: an emotional scene that takes place barely 10 minutes in. You are bound to tear up.
The strongest element throughout the movie, which either strengthens or weakens the bond between Babah and Maya, is communication. This is conveyed and accentuated by the sound design, which lets us know when (and what) Babah hears or doesn’t hear – or the times he chooses NOT to hear.
How Babah’s hearing affects his relationship with Maya is remarkably orchestrated, right down to the last words he utters in the film. At certain points you might find yourself bothered by the audio, wondering about the crackling of static or poorly balanced levels. You’re not losing it. You’re just listening through Babah’s ears.
With the proceedings unfolding across the decades, the production design nails it with era-appropriate settings. Those of you who grew up learning music will either appreciate the nostalgia or cringe at a particular piano book by Lina Ng. Even the songs played throughout the movie will make you want to sing along in memory of those Walkman days.
With a well-written and generally balanced script for the lead roles, viewers can easily immerse themselves in the trajectory of Babah and Maya’s relationship and appreciate the dynamic they build throughout the film.
With so much focus being cast upon the leads, however, the state of the supporting players is a bit of a mess.
Hayati, Babah’s wife and Maya’s mother played by Cristina Suzanne, anchors herself as such a strong figure in her family, you’ll find yourself wanting the spotlight to shine a little bit more on her. Alas, this is forsaken for the sake of the father-daughter bond.
Maya’s love interest, Ikmal (played by Qismina’s real-life husband Adam Lee) comes across as a bit wooden but is ultimately serviceable. Maya’s friends, though? Here’s where the movie drops the ball: over-the-top acting and excessive expressions but zero chemistry. It’s like watching a half-baked script for a teen drama starring social media influencers – which is closer to the truth than you might think.
Nevertheless, there is plenty to love about “Babah”. With its simplistic approach to cinematography, it is visually easy to digest: no extravagant shots, no long takes; just clean frames and soft lighting. The film even left this writer with a slightly calming effect as the credits started rolling – albeit with swollen eyes from all the crying.
Plus, there are original songs by Panji Sakti and local rockstar Noh Salleh, who makes a cameo. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing one can slip straight back into the feels simply by listening to “Lagu Cinta” and “Rahsia Tuhan”.
All in all, is “Babah” worth catching on the big screen? It is a resounding “yes”. Films like this deserve all the recognition and support they can get, especially from fellow Malaysians.
So bring your family, be it your parents or children, sink into some comfy seats, and join the cryfest for just over two hours.
As of press time, ‘Babah’ is screening in selected cinemas nationwide.