'Pulang' kian hangat
Syafil Syazwan Jefri
Lari daripada naratif yang selalu menjadi tunjang filem Melayu, Pulang terbitan Primeworks Studios kini hangat diperkatakan di media sosial.
Rata-rata memberikan maklum balas positif sekali gus mendorong pencinta filem Melayu menyaksikan apa kelainan yang ditampilkan dalam naskhah itu.
Pencetus idea asal yang juga Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Primeworks Studios, Datuk Ahmad Izham Omar mengakui tidak menjangka Pulang akan jadi tular.
“Saya sendiri terkejut kerana tak pernah saya tengok filem tempatan yang menjadi fenomena seperti Pulang terutamanya di media sosial,” katanya.
Izham berkata, dia menerima maklum balas secara langsung daripada penonton yang sudah menyaksikan Pulang yang ditayangkan sejak 26 Julai lalu.
“Majoriti memberitahu saya filem ini sangat memberi impak kerana mengandungi nilai kekeluargaan yang sangat kuat.
“Mereka juga memuji jalan cerita yang lain daripada lain terutama latar masa yang pelbagai,” katanya.
Izham yang ditemui di Majlis Sepetang Bersama Ahmad Izham Omar di Balai Berita NSTP Bangsar itu turut memuji kemampuan bitang utama Pulang, Remy Ishak yang memegang peranan sebagai Othman.
“Bagi saya kehebatan Remu tidak hanya terhad kepada dirinya teapi juga diserap orang sekelilingnya. Sikap profesional yang dipegang Remy mempengaruhi pelakon lain.
“Ia sekali gus membuatkan bintang baru turut memberikan lakonan berkualiti.
“Ada penonton bertanya kenapa karakter Othman tidak banyak bercakap. Sebenarnya, dari ekspresi wajah Othman pun kita sudah tahu apa yang ingin disampaikannya,” kata Izham.
Selain itu, Izham turut memuji keberkesanan lakonan Puteri Aishah sebagai Thom.
“Walaupun ini filem pertama lakonannya, Puteri Aishah mempamerkan lakonan cemerlang sebagai Thom,” katanya.
Turut serta dalam program itu adalah bapanya, Omar Othman, saksi hidup kisah besar yang diangkat ke layar lebar itu.
Menurut Omar, babak paling menyentuh hatinya adalah ketika karakter Omar lakonan Azrel Ismail bertemu dengan Othman di Liverpool.
“Ketika menonton babak ini, terimbau kenangan ketika saya bertemu arwah bapa buat kali pertama selepas 20 tahun terpisah.
“Pertemuan itu sangat beremosi dan saya akan ingat sampai bila-bila,” katanya.
Selain Remy, Puteri Aishah dan Azrel, Pulang turut dibintangi Erwin Dawson, Alvin Wong, Juliana Evans, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan dan ramai lagi.
Selain filem, Pulang juga diadaptasi dalam bentuk novel hasil karya novelis terkenal, Lily Haslina Nasir.
hmetro
Pulang: Garapan cinta penuh emosi
Alif Fadli Mohd. Sori
HARAPAN mengunung diletakkan kepada filem ini. Apatah lagi, bagi sebuah naskhah yang diilhamkan daripada kisah benar pastinya emosi dan penjiwaan penonton diletakkan di tangga teratas.
Pulang bukan sebuah filem biasa-biasa. Mengambil kisah epik penuh duka seorang lelaki kelahiran Serkam, Melaka yang belayar ke serata dunia menggenggam harapan mengubah hidupnya, filem ini digarap dengan sempurna.
Kisah Othman yang terpaksa meninggalkan isteri, Thom dan anaknya, Omar untuk belayar mencari rezeki diselangselikan dengan pelbagai insiden yang cukup meruntun dan mendebarkan jiwa.
Babak ketika ditangkap tentera Jepun, insiden kebakaran di atas kapal dan pergaduhan dengan kelasi lain diterjemahkan dengan mantap bawah arahan tangan magis, Kabir Bhatia.
Filem Pulang yang memakan belanja lebih RM6 juta ini juga memaparkan beberapa lokasi terkenal dunia antaranya England, Hong Kong, Korea Selatan dan Jepun.
Dizahirkan dengan sinematografi dan arahan seni yang cukup indah, filem ini berjaya meruntun jiwa penonton yang hadir dengan kisah cinta merentasi tiga generasi.
Filem yang dibarisi pelakon handalan antaranya Remy Ishak, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan, Puteri Aishah dan Erwin Dowson, masing-masing berjaya menakluk watak dengan cara tersendiri.
Sekalung tahniah seharusnya diberikan kepada pelakon baharu, Puteri Aishah yang berjaya membawakan watak Thom biarpun Pulang merupakan filem pertamanya sejak melangkah dalam industri.
Bukan mudah untuk membawakan watak yang merentasi dua generasi namun Puteri Aishah tidak menjadikan ketakutan dan gugup sebagai halangan. Namun banyak lagi yang perlu diperbaiki khususnya watak sebagai Thom versi tua.
Tidak usah mempertikai lakonan mantap Remy kerana pada tangannya, dia berjaya menghidupkan watak Othman sehingga jiwa dan emosi penonton selari dengan kesedihan serta keperitan yang dihadapi.
Tatkala Othman berdepan dengan babak-babak sukar dalam hidupnya, penonton dibawa belayar dengan adrenalin meninggi apabila pelbagai aksi-aksi mendebarkan terpaksa dilalui.
Watak kelasi zaman Tanah Melayu yang dijiwai sempurna oleh Remy dan beberapa pelakon lain juga seharusnya diberi penghargaan terutama apabila kapal mereka dibadai ombak laut.
Seorang lagi pelakon yang selayaknya menerima ucapan tahniah adalah Alvin Wong yang membawakan watak Lum dengan cukup mantap. Dia berjaya menghidupkan Pulang dengan kesedihan dan lawak jenaka yang benar-benar mencuit hati.
Biarpun terpaksa berdepan dengan beberapa masalah dalam babak-babak mencabar namun Alvin berjaya membawakan watak Lum yang juga rakan baik kepada Othman dengan berkesan.
Filem yang mengambil masa dua tahun untuk menghasilkan kesan khas visual ini berjaya direalisasikan dengan visual imej janaan (CGI) yang memakan belanja RM2 juta geran dari Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional (Finas).
Selain visual yang boleh disifatkan sempurna, skor muzik bawah arahan komposer dan penerbit terkenal, Aubrey Suwito juga berjaya membawa penonton berkelana dengan permainan emosi.
Seandainya anda peminat filem yang meletakkan cinta sejati sebagai tema, anda ‘wajib’ untuk menonton filem karya agung Kabir ini yang bakal ditayangkan bermula 26 Julai ini.
Tahniah kepada seluruh kru poduksi Primeworks Studios dan para pelakon yang berjaya menterjemahkan sebuah kisah benar dengan cukup berjaya. Pulang, sebuah kisah epik garapan cinta sempurna yang meruntun jiwa.
Cabaran watak
Memainkan watak Othman yang benar-benar wujud, bagi Remy Ishak, dia perlu mengkaji serta mendalami karakter dan perwatakan sebenar lelaki itu selari dengan rujukan yang diberikan.
“Saya banyak bertanya kepada ahli keluarga tentang perwatakan Othman. Bermula dari situ, saya mendalami watak tersebut supaya penonton dapat merasai perasaan sebenar lelaki tersebut,” katanya.
Bagi Puteri Aishah pula, pertama kali berlakon filem merupakan satu cabaran apatah lagi bergandingan dengan nama-nama hebat dalam industri filem. Malah watak Thom juga cukup besar untuk dijayakan pelakon baharu sepertinya.
Namun cabaran tersebut digalas dengan penuh iltizam dan dia banyak berguru dengan rakan-rakan artis serta membuat kajian sendiri tentang perwatakan Thom yang sebenar.
“Remy dan cikgu kami, Fauziah Abu Bakar banyak membantu saya. Memang susah dan mencabar kerana watak Thom memerlukan permainan emosi yang mendalam tapi saya cuba untuk beri yang terbaik,” katanya.
Mendapat pujian menggunung menerusi watak Lum, Alvin Wong sebenarnya teruja apabila berpeluang kembali ke dunia perfileman Melayu yang sudah tiga tahun ditinggalkan.
“Sebenarnya melakonkan watak Lum ini cabarannya adalah saya terpaksa melawan penyakit Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) yang dihadapi apabila terpaksa berlakon dengan mayat-mayat yang kotor.
“Mencipta keserasian antara saya dan Remy juga tidak sukar. Ini kali pertama kami berlakon bersama-sama tetapi kami mudah berkerjasama khususnya banyak insiden penting yang berlaku antara saya dan Remy,” katanya.
Pulang ke pasaran dunia
Berbicara dengan pengarah, Kabir Bhatia tentang bagaimana mencipta sebuah karya epik diinspirasikan daripada sebuah kisah yang benar-benar berlaku merupakan cabaran yang perlu dihadapi.
“Kita mempunyai rujukan iaitu anak kepada Othman sendiri, namun pada masa yang sama, kita perlu menambah sedikit warna dengan menyelitkan beberapa babak fiksyen.
“Malah kita juga melakukan beberapa kajian sendiri terutama bagaimana kelasi berpakaian ketika era 1940-an kerana kita tidak mempunyai gambar. Namun sedikit sebanyak kita cuba gambarkan situasi itu,” katanya.
Dalam pada itu, Kabir berkata, Pulang juga bakal menjengah ke pawagam antarabangsa antaranya Australia jika pihak Primeworks selaku penerbit berjaya merealisasikan impian tersebut.
“Kita tidak menolak kemungkinan itu. Saya tahu apabila sesebuah filem itu bagus, penonton juga akan lebih tertarik. Oleh itu, Pulang digarap dengan sebaik yang kita mampu,” katanya.
Ditanya watak yang benar-benar memberi impak, Kabir berkata, Thom merupakan watak yang cukup berat kerana terpaksa berperang dengan kerinduan, kesedihan dan juga emosi sendiri.
“Lum juga adalah satu watak yang sangat menarik kerana semangat setia kawannya. Kita tidak mempunyai rujukan tentang peribadi Lum secara realitinya, namun Alvin berjaya membawa watak itu.
“Malah watak Omar juga sebenarnya agak mencabar untuk dilakonkan kerana dia seorang yang sangat positif. Watak utama seperti Othman juga menuntut penjiwaan yang besar,” katanya yang juga pengarah filem, Bisik Pada Langit.
Dalam pada itu, diminta mengulas cabaran untuk mengarah filem Pulang, Kabir berkata, filem tersebut memberi cabaran dari segenap aspek khususnya babak kapal tenggelam di tengah lautan.
“Babak itu tidak mungkin terjadi jika tiada sokongan daripada kru produksi dan pasukan kesan khas yang sangat profesional. Kita membina bahagian depan kapal dan merobohkannya seperti melanggar batu besar.
“Saya rasa, filem ini berjaya diterjemahkan seperti yang kami gambarkan. Memang ada beberada cabaran, namun semua dapat diatasi kerana bekerja dengan pasukan yang baik,” katanya.
utusanonline
‘Pulang’ is a wonderfully crafted story of love and sacrifice
BY JOHAN JAAFFAR
An admirably good old-fashioned love story is not just the strength of Pulang, the movie produced by Media Prima’s Grand Brilliance. Added to that is the visual panache seldom seen in a local Malaysian movie. The incredibly stunning and believable computer-generated images (CGI) gives the movie an expensive look. But the entire film enterprise is not just about seeing and believing, it is also about good acting and smart direction.
I was sceptical when Remy Ishak was announced the lead actor of Pulang. He’s a cool dude, no question about that, but he’s your typical “bintang filem” (film star) – handsome, glamourous, showy and at times controversial. It reminds me of Ron Howard’s choice to showcase Chris Hemsworth as Owen Chase the First Mate in the whaling ship Essex in the movie, In the Heart of the Sea. He is simply too gorgeous to pass as a sailor. But he did a remarkable job, one of the reasons, the movie that did not do well at the box-office is watchable.
Remy proves me wrong. He transforms from Othman, a simple village fisherman to a hardened sailor almost effortlessly. He is even better as he aged, nursing his sorrow and misfortune, burdened by the guilt leaving his wife who waited for him in Melaka and confronting the son he never met after many years. Remy deserves accolades for his acting.
Like Hemsworth, Remy took his role seriously. He matured on the ship, he endured unbearable pain and his tortured soul is well portrayed in the movie. It is a role like this that will differentiate the boys from the men, an actor or just a bintang filem. This is his best work so far.
Pulang is a movie that will resonate with many, the love story is almost too good to be true in reality, but as they say, humans are capable of being part of events that are more incredible than fiction. Based on real events, involving the grand-parents of Datuk Ahmad Izham Omar, Media Prima’s head of Primeworks Studio, it has been in the pipeline for some years. Great movies are made of these – good story line with great studio support and brilliant execution. By any standard a story of a husband and wife separated for so many years and remain faithful to each other sound “filmish”. What is needed is to translate the narrative to cinema.
We all love a good sob story. Heart-breaking theme is never off-limit. Loneliness affects us in more ways than one. Pulang is a stupendously sad movie but a wonderfully crafted love story. And it is brainy story of friendship and sacrifice too.
Izham is lucky to have Kabir Bhatia, one of the most interesting directors working today. Mumbai-born Kabir Bhatia made his mark as a director to watch when he helmed Grand Brilliance’s Cinta in 2006. The original idea came from Rahman Ahmad, the then Group Managing Director (GMD) of Media Prima (currently CEO of Perbadanan Nasionbal Berhad or PNB) and written for the screen by Mira Mustafa. Mira is also the screenplay writer for Pulang together with Ahmad Izham.
Pulang is a movie that will resonate with many, and the love story is almost too good to be true in reality. Cinta was a box-office hit. Kabir Bhatia’s other notable movies are Sepi (2008) and Nur Kasih (2011) Last year Astro Shaw released Bisik Pada Langit as a movie, a project meant to be a “super telly” or “extended telemovie.” Bisik Pada Langit is tear-jerker that forces us to sympathise with the father who lost his daughter in an accident in Australia. Despite gallant effort by Jalil Hamid as Wak Selamat, the film remains a telemovie in scope and spirit.
Prying emotions in a movie has its downside. Tearjerkers are not the genre that cinema audiences would love to watch these days. The Champ, the 1979 movie starring Jon Voight and Ricky Schroder was probably apt for the era. Just like the films of Neng Yatimah, the local actress labelled as “seniwati air mata” or the actress who can make audiences cry of the 50s and 60s.
Perhaps Kabir Bhatia realises that the ratap tangis (cry and wail formula) is not the best for current audiences. The new demography of paying audiences are different than those during the previous decades. While there are heart-wrenching moments in Pulang but Kabir Bhatia didn’t overdo it. The expressions are cleverly restrained. It is in the actors’ faces and behavioural tick that we see sadness, anger, torment and most importantly longing for each other.
Puteri Aishah is a surprise choice to carry the weight of the woman left by her husband. Interestingly it is her first film role with she does with poise and understanding of her character. She is a lady to watch. There is another actor that carries Pulang to where it is – Alvin Wong playing Lum. He is a scene stealer in many occasions.
Pulang is not perfect. But within that imperfections it is true to the spirit of the story. Since the theme as narrated by the old Che Tom to her grandson is about “Othman meninggalkan aku” (Othman leaving her), Kabir Bhatia chooses to show at least two instances that Othman was “lost.” The first time he was almost dead while fishing and the second when he was captured by the Japanese soldiers. It took precious movie minutes to be distracted by those events.
Perhaps more details should be given on the costume, mannerism and contemporary verbal expressions. Details like that is always the weakest link for local movies trying to depict a different era.
Nonetheless, Pulang has a great narrative that is being told with cinematic aplomb. The visual effects are of high standard and worthy of comparison with Hollywood films. Visually it is stunning. It is never emotional obtuse nor intellectually empty.
Pulang is one of the best films produced by Grand Brilliance so far.
Johan Jaaffar has just published a book, Jejak Seni, about his 50-year incredible journey as an actor, playwright, director and later chairman of the country’s largest media company. He was a journalist and a former Chairman of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).
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Full Cast and Crew
Directed by
Kabir Bhatia Writing Credits (in alphabetical order)
Mira Mustaffa
Ahmad Izham Omar
Cast (in credits order)
Remy Ishak Remy Ishak ... Othman
Puteri Aishah Puteri Aishah ... Thom
Alvin Wong Alvin Wong ... Lum
Azrel Ismail Azrel Ismail ... Omar
Erwin Dawson Erwin Dawson ... Ahmad
Juliana Evans Juliana Evans ... Alia
Jalaluddin Hassan Jalaluddin Hassan ... Omar (50s)
Rahim Razali Rahim Razali ... Jamil (90s)
Sherry Al Jeffry Sherry Al Jeffry ... Thom (70s)
Aida Khalida Aida Khalida ... Jaybah
Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Shahidan Abdullah Shahidan Abdullah ... Omar 11 years
Akmal Ahmad Akmal Ahmad ... Karim
Nur Akhtar Mohamad Amin Nur Akhtar Mohamad Amin ... Salmah
Iman Haidar Iman Haidar ... Omar 6 years
Syazuwan Hassan Syazuwan Hassan ... Cikgu Hassan
Naza Abdul Manas Naza Abdul Manas ... Taib
Sean Allan Perry Sean Allan Perry ... English Captain
Rosli Sako Rosli Sako ... Informer
Winnie Thye Winnie Thye ... Mamasan
Doppo Watanabe Doppo Watanabe ... Japanese Officer
Produced by
Tengku Iesta Tengku Alaudin ... executive producer
Irene Mariena Mohamad ... producer
Nor Shahila Harun Shah ... executive producer
Music by
Aubrey Suwito
Cinematography by
Zambree Haras
Film Editing by
Kabir Bhatia ... lead editor
Naeim Ghalili ... co-editor
Abdul Samad Hassan
Production Design by
Tommy Mansur
Art Direction by
David Manjit
Makeup Department
Intan Azlina Aris ... key make-up & hairstylist
Ella Sandera ... special makeup effects artist
Production Management
Muhammad Arieff Amali Munif ... asst. production
Nor Saidatul Akmar Salbiah Yong ... terengganu asst. production
Art Department
Sasikumar Bahkumar ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Mageswaran Alaramiah Bamiah ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Sri Selvaganesh Erulappan ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Gobinathan Krishna ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Mohammad Izzat Mohd Azman ... standby scenic painter
Mohammad Jenee Mohd Azman ... standby scenic painter
Dinesh Kumar Munisamy ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Tamilarasu Sundaresan ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Muhammad Alif Thiagu Subramaniam Abdullah Thaneswa ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Rhuteran Vatumalay ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Sound Department
Yuin Yii Au Yoong ... audio post producer
Stella Hiew ... audio post producer
Jazzlyn Loh ... audio post producer
Raja Ahmad Shaidaley ... audio post supervisor
Leon Tan ... audio post executive producer
Visual Effects by
Peter Riel ... visual effects director
Yin May Tham ... executive producer
Stunts
Ali Arami Bin Adzahar ... stunt performer
Yuen Xiang Beh ... stunt performer
Kein Wah Chan ... stunt performer
Puie Heng Chen ... stunt performer
Soong Meng Chia ... stunt performer
Goh Sin Ping ... stunt performer
Fook Chien Pui ... stunt performer
Jun Long Wee ... stunt performer
Choon Meng Wong ... stunt director
Teck Chee Woon ... stunt performer
Camera and Electrical Department
Ramzi Kamsul ... asst. second unit camera
Razali Kosnan ... asst. cameraman 1
Tay Hong Lan ... focus puller
Muhammad Ikhwan Lokman ... best boy gaffer
Nurhanisham Muhammad ... second unit camera
Muhammed Seth Nabill ... asst. cameraman 2
Rozelem Othman ... gaffer
Jim Redmond ... electrician
Muhamad Riduan ... second asst. second unit camera
Faiz Subri ... asst. cameraman 3
Costume and Wardrobe Department
Dee Hasnan ... wardrobe designer
Norhafiz Helmy ... wardrobe assistant
Nadzirah Izzati ... wardrobe assistant
Location Management
Jonathan Cope ... assistant location manager
William McCullin ... location runner
Sophie Pinch ... location manager
Music Department
Toko Inomoto ... violinist
Ergys Koni ... violinist
Brian C. Larson ... violinist
Siong Quen Leong ... violinist
Jian Liu ... violinist
sumber imdb
Pulang’: A compelling love story that will make you cry
BY ANGELIN YEOH
In the film Pulang, the person playing the waiting game is Thom (Puteri Aishah). When her fisherman husband Othman (Remy Ishak) decides to take up a job as a sailor, she has no choice but to let him go. As time goes by, it becomes sadly evident that her husband is not coming home.
Pulang tells a compelling story about the heartbreaking relationship between Othman and Thom. It explores Thom’s excruciating wait for her husband and the reason behind his disappearance.
There is drama in the way the story unfolds through a number of significant events that briefly inform viewers on the history of Malaysia. The film also provides a nuanced reflection on how the generation before us survived a turbulent period filled with uncertainty and hardship.
The cinematography in Pulang is a gorgeous feast for the eyes with the ocean as a recurring metaphor throughout the film. When the sea is calm and clear, it’s used as a stunning backdrop for happier times.
Meanwhile, its destructive nature reminds us that life has its share of troubles. You’ll also appreciate how visual technology is used to depict Othman’s life at sea and his journey around the world.
There are defiant and interesting characters to root for as well. Othman is portrayed as a kind person who does not let his suffering get in the way of doing the right thing. Then there is Thom who bravely ventures out on her own to find her missing husband.
All this may sound like Pulang is drowning in its own melodrama; thankfully it has a bit of humour. Alvin Wong – playing Othman’s wisecracking friend Lam – shows that when times are bad, a little humour goes a long way.
Pulang has too many unnecessary elements that hamper the audience’s attention. As per his style, director Kabir Bhatia relies on the film’s theme song (Layarlah Kembali by Dayang Nurfaizah) to amplify the film’s emotional message. It doesn’t help that the audience has to go through so many slow motion montages and scenes, especially near the end.
Nonetheless, the story of Othman and Thom is a moving cinematic experience with something for everyone. There is an inspiring story of adventure and bravery; also a beautiful yet heartbreaking love story. But Pulang does require viewers’ patience. With Pulang, the hopeless romantic and the realist – for once – can agree that time heals everything.
star2
Syafil Syazwan Jefri
Lari daripada naratif yang selalu menjadi tunjang filem Melayu, Pulang terbitan Primeworks Studios kini hangat diperkatakan di media sosial.
Rata-rata memberikan maklum balas positif sekali gus mendorong pencinta filem Melayu menyaksikan apa kelainan yang ditampilkan dalam naskhah itu.
Pencetus idea asal yang juga Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Primeworks Studios, Datuk Ahmad Izham Omar mengakui tidak menjangka Pulang akan jadi tular.
“Saya sendiri terkejut kerana tak pernah saya tengok filem tempatan yang menjadi fenomena seperti Pulang terutamanya di media sosial,” katanya.
Izham berkata, dia menerima maklum balas secara langsung daripada penonton yang sudah menyaksikan Pulang yang ditayangkan sejak 26 Julai lalu.
“Majoriti memberitahu saya filem ini sangat memberi impak kerana mengandungi nilai kekeluargaan yang sangat kuat.
“Mereka juga memuji jalan cerita yang lain daripada lain terutama latar masa yang pelbagai,” katanya.
Izham yang ditemui di Majlis Sepetang Bersama Ahmad Izham Omar di Balai Berita NSTP Bangsar itu turut memuji kemampuan bitang utama Pulang, Remy Ishak yang memegang peranan sebagai Othman.
“Bagi saya kehebatan Remu tidak hanya terhad kepada dirinya teapi juga diserap orang sekelilingnya. Sikap profesional yang dipegang Remy mempengaruhi pelakon lain.
“Ia sekali gus membuatkan bintang baru turut memberikan lakonan berkualiti.
“Ada penonton bertanya kenapa karakter Othman tidak banyak bercakap. Sebenarnya, dari ekspresi wajah Othman pun kita sudah tahu apa yang ingin disampaikannya,” kata Izham.
Selain itu, Izham turut memuji keberkesanan lakonan Puteri Aishah sebagai Thom.
“Walaupun ini filem pertama lakonannya, Puteri Aishah mempamerkan lakonan cemerlang sebagai Thom,” katanya.
Turut serta dalam program itu adalah bapanya, Omar Othman, saksi hidup kisah besar yang diangkat ke layar lebar itu.
Menurut Omar, babak paling menyentuh hatinya adalah ketika karakter Omar lakonan Azrel Ismail bertemu dengan Othman di Liverpool.
“Ketika menonton babak ini, terimbau kenangan ketika saya bertemu arwah bapa buat kali pertama selepas 20 tahun terpisah.
“Pertemuan itu sangat beremosi dan saya akan ingat sampai bila-bila,” katanya.
Selain Remy, Puteri Aishah dan Azrel, Pulang turut dibintangi Erwin Dawson, Alvin Wong, Juliana Evans, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan dan ramai lagi.
Selain filem, Pulang juga diadaptasi dalam bentuk novel hasil karya novelis terkenal, Lily Haslina Nasir.
hmetro
Pulang: Garapan cinta penuh emosi
Alif Fadli Mohd. Sori
HARAPAN mengunung diletakkan kepada filem ini. Apatah lagi, bagi sebuah naskhah yang diilhamkan daripada kisah benar pastinya emosi dan penjiwaan penonton diletakkan di tangga teratas.
Pulang bukan sebuah filem biasa-biasa. Mengambil kisah epik penuh duka seorang lelaki kelahiran Serkam, Melaka yang belayar ke serata dunia menggenggam harapan mengubah hidupnya, filem ini digarap dengan sempurna.
Kisah Othman yang terpaksa meninggalkan isteri, Thom dan anaknya, Omar untuk belayar mencari rezeki diselangselikan dengan pelbagai insiden yang cukup meruntun dan mendebarkan jiwa.
Babak ketika ditangkap tentera Jepun, insiden kebakaran di atas kapal dan pergaduhan dengan kelasi lain diterjemahkan dengan mantap bawah arahan tangan magis, Kabir Bhatia.
Filem Pulang yang memakan belanja lebih RM6 juta ini juga memaparkan beberapa lokasi terkenal dunia antaranya England, Hong Kong, Korea Selatan dan Jepun.
Dizahirkan dengan sinematografi dan arahan seni yang cukup indah, filem ini berjaya meruntun jiwa penonton yang hadir dengan kisah cinta merentasi tiga generasi.
Filem yang dibarisi pelakon handalan antaranya Remy Ishak, Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan, Puteri Aishah dan Erwin Dowson, masing-masing berjaya menakluk watak dengan cara tersendiri.
Sekalung tahniah seharusnya diberikan kepada pelakon baharu, Puteri Aishah yang berjaya membawakan watak Thom biarpun Pulang merupakan filem pertamanya sejak melangkah dalam industri.
Bukan mudah untuk membawakan watak yang merentasi dua generasi namun Puteri Aishah tidak menjadikan ketakutan dan gugup sebagai halangan. Namun banyak lagi yang perlu diperbaiki khususnya watak sebagai Thom versi tua.
Tidak usah mempertikai lakonan mantap Remy kerana pada tangannya, dia berjaya menghidupkan watak Othman sehingga jiwa dan emosi penonton selari dengan kesedihan serta keperitan yang dihadapi.
Tatkala Othman berdepan dengan babak-babak sukar dalam hidupnya, penonton dibawa belayar dengan adrenalin meninggi apabila pelbagai aksi-aksi mendebarkan terpaksa dilalui.
Watak kelasi zaman Tanah Melayu yang dijiwai sempurna oleh Remy dan beberapa pelakon lain juga seharusnya diberi penghargaan terutama apabila kapal mereka dibadai ombak laut.
Seorang lagi pelakon yang selayaknya menerima ucapan tahniah adalah Alvin Wong yang membawakan watak Lum dengan cukup mantap. Dia berjaya menghidupkan Pulang dengan kesedihan dan lawak jenaka yang benar-benar mencuit hati.
Biarpun terpaksa berdepan dengan beberapa masalah dalam babak-babak mencabar namun Alvin berjaya membawakan watak Lum yang juga rakan baik kepada Othman dengan berkesan.
Filem yang mengambil masa dua tahun untuk menghasilkan kesan khas visual ini berjaya direalisasikan dengan visual imej janaan (CGI) yang memakan belanja RM2 juta geran dari Perbadanan Kemajuan Filem Nasional (Finas).
Selain visual yang boleh disifatkan sempurna, skor muzik bawah arahan komposer dan penerbit terkenal, Aubrey Suwito juga berjaya membawa penonton berkelana dengan permainan emosi.
Seandainya anda peminat filem yang meletakkan cinta sejati sebagai tema, anda ‘wajib’ untuk menonton filem karya agung Kabir ini yang bakal ditayangkan bermula 26 Julai ini.
Tahniah kepada seluruh kru poduksi Primeworks Studios dan para pelakon yang berjaya menterjemahkan sebuah kisah benar dengan cukup berjaya. Pulang, sebuah kisah epik garapan cinta sempurna yang meruntun jiwa.
Cabaran watak
Memainkan watak Othman yang benar-benar wujud, bagi Remy Ishak, dia perlu mengkaji serta mendalami karakter dan perwatakan sebenar lelaki itu selari dengan rujukan yang diberikan.
“Saya banyak bertanya kepada ahli keluarga tentang perwatakan Othman. Bermula dari situ, saya mendalami watak tersebut supaya penonton dapat merasai perasaan sebenar lelaki tersebut,” katanya.
Bagi Puteri Aishah pula, pertama kali berlakon filem merupakan satu cabaran apatah lagi bergandingan dengan nama-nama hebat dalam industri filem. Malah watak Thom juga cukup besar untuk dijayakan pelakon baharu sepertinya.
Namun cabaran tersebut digalas dengan penuh iltizam dan dia banyak berguru dengan rakan-rakan artis serta membuat kajian sendiri tentang perwatakan Thom yang sebenar.
“Remy dan cikgu kami, Fauziah Abu Bakar banyak membantu saya. Memang susah dan mencabar kerana watak Thom memerlukan permainan emosi yang mendalam tapi saya cuba untuk beri yang terbaik,” katanya.
Mendapat pujian menggunung menerusi watak Lum, Alvin Wong sebenarnya teruja apabila berpeluang kembali ke dunia perfileman Melayu yang sudah tiga tahun ditinggalkan.
“Sebenarnya melakonkan watak Lum ini cabarannya adalah saya terpaksa melawan penyakit Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) yang dihadapi apabila terpaksa berlakon dengan mayat-mayat yang kotor.
“Mencipta keserasian antara saya dan Remy juga tidak sukar. Ini kali pertama kami berlakon bersama-sama tetapi kami mudah berkerjasama khususnya banyak insiden penting yang berlaku antara saya dan Remy,” katanya.
Pulang ke pasaran dunia
Berbicara dengan pengarah, Kabir Bhatia tentang bagaimana mencipta sebuah karya epik diinspirasikan daripada sebuah kisah yang benar-benar berlaku merupakan cabaran yang perlu dihadapi.
“Kita mempunyai rujukan iaitu anak kepada Othman sendiri, namun pada masa yang sama, kita perlu menambah sedikit warna dengan menyelitkan beberapa babak fiksyen.
“Malah kita juga melakukan beberapa kajian sendiri terutama bagaimana kelasi berpakaian ketika era 1940-an kerana kita tidak mempunyai gambar. Namun sedikit sebanyak kita cuba gambarkan situasi itu,” katanya.
Dalam pada itu, Kabir berkata, Pulang juga bakal menjengah ke pawagam antarabangsa antaranya Australia jika pihak Primeworks selaku penerbit berjaya merealisasikan impian tersebut.
“Kita tidak menolak kemungkinan itu. Saya tahu apabila sesebuah filem itu bagus, penonton juga akan lebih tertarik. Oleh itu, Pulang digarap dengan sebaik yang kita mampu,” katanya.
Ditanya watak yang benar-benar memberi impak, Kabir berkata, Thom merupakan watak yang cukup berat kerana terpaksa berperang dengan kerinduan, kesedihan dan juga emosi sendiri.
“Lum juga adalah satu watak yang sangat menarik kerana semangat setia kawannya. Kita tidak mempunyai rujukan tentang peribadi Lum secara realitinya, namun Alvin berjaya membawa watak itu.
“Malah watak Omar juga sebenarnya agak mencabar untuk dilakonkan kerana dia seorang yang sangat positif. Watak utama seperti Othman juga menuntut penjiwaan yang besar,” katanya yang juga pengarah filem, Bisik Pada Langit.
Dalam pada itu, diminta mengulas cabaran untuk mengarah filem Pulang, Kabir berkata, filem tersebut memberi cabaran dari segenap aspek khususnya babak kapal tenggelam di tengah lautan.
“Babak itu tidak mungkin terjadi jika tiada sokongan daripada kru produksi dan pasukan kesan khas yang sangat profesional. Kita membina bahagian depan kapal dan merobohkannya seperti melanggar batu besar.
“Saya rasa, filem ini berjaya diterjemahkan seperti yang kami gambarkan. Memang ada beberada cabaran, namun semua dapat diatasi kerana bekerja dengan pasukan yang baik,” katanya.
utusanonline
‘Pulang’ is a wonderfully crafted story of love and sacrifice
BY JOHAN JAAFFAR
An admirably good old-fashioned love story is not just the strength of Pulang, the movie produced by Media Prima’s Grand Brilliance. Added to that is the visual panache seldom seen in a local Malaysian movie. The incredibly stunning and believable computer-generated images (CGI) gives the movie an expensive look. But the entire film enterprise is not just about seeing and believing, it is also about good acting and smart direction.
I was sceptical when Remy Ishak was announced the lead actor of Pulang. He’s a cool dude, no question about that, but he’s your typical “bintang filem” (film star) – handsome, glamourous, showy and at times controversial. It reminds me of Ron Howard’s choice to showcase Chris Hemsworth as Owen Chase the First Mate in the whaling ship Essex in the movie, In the Heart of the Sea. He is simply too gorgeous to pass as a sailor. But he did a remarkable job, one of the reasons, the movie that did not do well at the box-office is watchable.
Remy proves me wrong. He transforms from Othman, a simple village fisherman to a hardened sailor almost effortlessly. He is even better as he aged, nursing his sorrow and misfortune, burdened by the guilt leaving his wife who waited for him in Melaka and confronting the son he never met after many years. Remy deserves accolades for his acting.
Like Hemsworth, Remy took his role seriously. He matured on the ship, he endured unbearable pain and his tortured soul is well portrayed in the movie. It is a role like this that will differentiate the boys from the men, an actor or just a bintang filem. This is his best work so far.
Remy Ishak shed 7kg to achieve the gaunt look as he plays a struggling fisherman and sailor. Photo: Primeworks Studio
We all love a good sob story. Heart-breaking theme is never off-limit. Loneliness affects us in more ways than one. Pulang is a stupendously sad movie but a wonderfully crafted love story. And it is brainy story of friendship and sacrifice too.
Izham is lucky to have Kabir Bhatia, one of the most interesting directors working today. Mumbai-born Kabir Bhatia made his mark as a director to watch when he helmed Grand Brilliance’s Cinta in 2006. The original idea came from Rahman Ahmad, the then Group Managing Director (GMD) of Media Prima (currently CEO of Perbadanan Nasionbal Berhad or PNB) and written for the screen by Mira Mustafa. Mira is also the screenplay writer for Pulang together with Ahmad Izham.
‘Pulang’ explores Thom’s excruciating wait for her husband and the reason behind his disappearance. Photo: Primeworks Studio
Prying emotions in a movie has its downside. Tearjerkers are not the genre that cinema audiences would love to watch these days. The Champ, the 1979 movie starring Jon Voight and Ricky Schroder was probably apt for the era. Just like the films of Neng Yatimah, the local actress labelled as “seniwati air mata” or the actress who can make audiences cry of the 50s and 60s.
Perhaps Kabir Bhatia realises that the ratap tangis (cry and wail formula) is not the best for current audiences. The new demography of paying audiences are different than those during the previous decades. While there are heart-wrenching moments in Pulang but Kabir Bhatia didn’t overdo it. The expressions are cleverly restrained. It is in the actors’ faces and behavioural tick that we see sadness, anger, torment and most importantly longing for each other.
Puteri Aishah plays her role with poise and confidence, with a real understanding of her character. Photo: Primeworks Studio
Puteri Aishah is a surprise choice to carry the weight of the woman left by her husband. Interestingly it is her first film role with she does with poise and understanding of her character. She is a lady to watch. There is another actor that carries Pulang to where it is – Alvin Wong playing Lum. He is a scene stealer in many occasions.
Pulang is not perfect. But within that imperfections it is true to the spirit of the story. Since the theme as narrated by the old Che Tom to her grandson is about “Othman meninggalkan aku” (Othman leaving her), Kabir Bhatia chooses to show at least two instances that Othman was “lost.” The first time he was almost dead while fishing and the second when he was captured by the Japanese soldiers. It took precious movie minutes to be distracted by those events.
Perhaps more details should be given on the costume, mannerism and contemporary verbal expressions. Details like that is always the weakest link for local movies trying to depict a different era.
Nonetheless, Pulang has a great narrative that is being told with cinematic aplomb. The visual effects are of high standard and worthy of comparison with Hollywood films. Visually it is stunning. It is never emotional obtuse nor intellectually empty.
Pulang is one of the best films produced by Grand Brilliance so far.
Johan Jaaffar has just published a book, Jejak Seni, about his 50-year incredible journey as an actor, playwright, director and later chairman of the country’s largest media company. He was a journalist and a former Chairman of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).
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Full Cast and Crew
Directed by
Kabir Bhatia Writing Credits (in alphabetical order)
Mira Mustaffa
Ahmad Izham Omar
Cast (in credits order)
Remy Ishak Remy Ishak ... Othman
Puteri Aishah Puteri Aishah ... Thom
Alvin Wong Alvin Wong ... Lum
Azrel Ismail Azrel Ismail ... Omar
Erwin Dawson Erwin Dawson ... Ahmad
Juliana Evans Juliana Evans ... Alia
Jalaluddin Hassan Jalaluddin Hassan ... Omar (50s)
Rahim Razali Rahim Razali ... Jamil (90s)
Sherry Al Jeffry Sherry Al Jeffry ... Thom (70s)
Aida Khalida Aida Khalida ... Jaybah
Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
Shahidan Abdullah Shahidan Abdullah ... Omar 11 years
Akmal Ahmad Akmal Ahmad ... Karim
Nur Akhtar Mohamad Amin Nur Akhtar Mohamad Amin ... Salmah
Iman Haidar Iman Haidar ... Omar 6 years
Syazuwan Hassan Syazuwan Hassan ... Cikgu Hassan
Naza Abdul Manas Naza Abdul Manas ... Taib
Sean Allan Perry Sean Allan Perry ... English Captain
Rosli Sako Rosli Sako ... Informer
Winnie Thye Winnie Thye ... Mamasan
Doppo Watanabe Doppo Watanabe ... Japanese Officer
Produced by
Tengku Iesta Tengku Alaudin ... executive producer
Irene Mariena Mohamad ... producer
Nor Shahila Harun Shah ... executive producer
Music by
Aubrey Suwito
Cinematography by
Zambree Haras
Film Editing by
Kabir Bhatia ... lead editor
Naeim Ghalili ... co-editor
Abdul Samad Hassan
Production Design by
Tommy Mansur
Art Direction by
David Manjit
Makeup Department
Intan Azlina Aris ... key make-up & hairstylist
Ella Sandera ... special makeup effects artist
Production Management
Muhammad Arieff Amali Munif ... asst. production
Nor Saidatul Akmar Salbiah Yong ... terengganu asst. production
Art Department
Sasikumar Bahkumar ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Mageswaran Alaramiah Bamiah ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Sri Selvaganesh Erulappan ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Gobinathan Krishna ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Mohammad Izzat Mohd Azman ... standby scenic painter
Mohammad Jenee Mohd Azman ... standby scenic painter
Dinesh Kumar Munisamy ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Tamilarasu Sundaresan ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Muhammad Alif Thiagu Subramaniam Abdullah Thaneswa ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Rhuteran Vatumalay ... prop maker/set dresser/prop buyer
Sound Department
Yuin Yii Au Yoong ... audio post producer
Stella Hiew ... audio post producer
Jazzlyn Loh ... audio post producer
Raja Ahmad Shaidaley ... audio post supervisor
Leon Tan ... audio post executive producer
Visual Effects by
Peter Riel ... visual effects director
Yin May Tham ... executive producer
Stunts
Ali Arami Bin Adzahar ... stunt performer
Yuen Xiang Beh ... stunt performer
Kein Wah Chan ... stunt performer
Puie Heng Chen ... stunt performer
Soong Meng Chia ... stunt performer
Goh Sin Ping ... stunt performer
Fook Chien Pui ... stunt performer
Jun Long Wee ... stunt performer
Choon Meng Wong ... stunt director
Teck Chee Woon ... stunt performer
Camera and Electrical Department
Ramzi Kamsul ... asst. second unit camera
Razali Kosnan ... asst. cameraman 1
Tay Hong Lan ... focus puller
Muhammad Ikhwan Lokman ... best boy gaffer
Nurhanisham Muhammad ... second unit camera
Muhammed Seth Nabill ... asst. cameraman 2
Rozelem Othman ... gaffer
Jim Redmond ... electrician
Muhamad Riduan ... second asst. second unit camera
Faiz Subri ... asst. cameraman 3
Costume and Wardrobe Department
Dee Hasnan ... wardrobe designer
Norhafiz Helmy ... wardrobe assistant
Nadzirah Izzati ... wardrobe assistant
Location Management
Jonathan Cope ... assistant location manager
William McCullin ... location runner
Sophie Pinch ... location manager
Music Department
Toko Inomoto ... violinist
Ergys Koni ... violinist
Brian C. Larson ... violinist
Siong Quen Leong ... violinist
Jian Liu ... violinist
sumber imdb
Pulang’: A compelling love story that will make you cry
BY ANGELIN YEOH
In the film Pulang, the person playing the waiting game is Thom (Puteri Aishah). When her fisherman husband Othman (Remy Ishak) decides to take up a job as a sailor, she has no choice but to let him go. As time goes by, it becomes sadly evident that her husband is not coming home.
Pulang tells a compelling story about the heartbreaking relationship between Othman and Thom. It explores Thom’s excruciating wait for her husband and the reason behind his disappearance.
There is drama in the way the story unfolds through a number of significant events that briefly inform viewers on the history of Malaysia. The film also provides a nuanced reflection on how the generation before us survived a turbulent period filled with uncertainty and hardship.
When dad is away, Thom has to be the one to teach son Omar how to dance for the school joget night.
The cinematography in Pulang is a gorgeous feast for the eyes with the ocean as a recurring metaphor throughout the film. When the sea is calm and clear, it’s used as a stunning backdrop for happier times.
Meanwhile, its destructive nature reminds us that life has its share of troubles. You’ll also appreciate how visual technology is used to depict Othman’s life at sea and his journey around the world.
There are defiant and interesting characters to root for as well. Othman is portrayed as a kind person who does not let his suffering get in the way of doing the right thing. Then there is Thom who bravely ventures out on her own to find her missing husband.
All this may sound like Pulang is drowning in its own melodrama; thankfully it has a bit of humour. Alvin Wong – playing Othman’s wisecracking friend Lam – shows that when times are bad, a little humour goes a long way.
Pulang has too many unnecessary elements that hamper the audience’s attention. As per his style, director Kabir Bhatia relies on the film’s theme song (Layarlah Kembali by Dayang Nurfaizah) to amplify the film’s emotional message. It doesn’t help that the audience has to go through so many slow motion montages and scenes, especially near the end.
Nonetheless, the story of Othman and Thom is a moving cinematic experience with something for everyone. There is an inspiring story of adventure and bravery; also a beautiful yet heartbreaking love story. But Pulang does require viewers’ patience. With Pulang, the hopeless romantic and the realist – for once – can agree that time heals everything.
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