Review LA LUNA, Film yang Menyentil Religi Melalui Komedi

Summary

In this review, the film *La Luna* from Malaysia is analyzed, focusing on its themes of societal change, fear of the unknown, and resistance to progress. Set in a conservative town, the story revolves around a woman who opens a lingerie store, challenging traditional norms and creating a space for empowerment. The review highlights the balance between serious issues and lighthearted moments, with humor and romance providing accessibility. Despite some imperfections, the film is praised for its engaging characters and impactful message about embracing change. The reviewer gives it a solid 8/10, calling it one of the most pleasant surprises of 2023.

Takeaways

• 😀 The reviewer, Rasid, is reviewing a Malaysian film titled 'La Luna' which is rare to see in Indonesian cinemas.
• 😀 Unlike usual reviews, this one focuses on a film from Malaysia, marking a break from the typical Hollywood or Asian films.
• 😀 'La Luna' explores the fear of change, particularly in a conservative village setting, where the community resists transformation.
• 😀 The film presents a village, Beras Basah, that is controlled by strict religious rules, and the arrival of a lingerie shop called 'Laluna' sparks controversy.
• 😀 The central antagonist, Tok Hasan, represents the fear of change, and his actions aim to prevent any alterations in the community, even if it could lead to happiness.
• 😀 The film touches on serious themes like gender inequality, oppression, and domestic violence, using 'Laluna' as a safe space for women.
• 😀 Despite serious themes, the film maintains a lighthearted tone with comedic moments, especially in the romance between characters Honey and Salihin.
• 😀 The film tackles the concept of masculinity and control, with male characters reacting negatively to the success and the empowerment that 'Laluna' represents.
• 😀 The film is praised for balancing its serious message about embracing change with engaging entertainment, but it still has room for improvement in some areas.
• 😀 The reviewer finds the ending satisfying and empowering, despite some earlier concerns about the film's reliance on coincidences to resolve the conflict.

Q & A

What is the movie 'La Luna' about?

'La Luna' is a Malaysian film set in a conservative village called Beras Basah. It explores the theme of change, focusing on how individuals and communities react to it, particularly when it involves a challenge to traditional values, such as the opening of a lingerie store in a strictly religious community.

Why does the protagonist, Tok Hasan, oppose change in the village?

Tok Hasan, the village leader, is deeply fearful of change. He perceives it as a threat to the established order and the strict religious values in the community. His resistance stems from a desire to maintain control and prevent any shift that might challenge his authority or disrupt the status quo.

How does the lingerie store, Laluna, affect the village?

Laluna, initially just a lingerie store, evolves into a safe space for women. It provides a space where women can freely express themselves, share their problems, and escape from the restrictive societal norms. This development challenges the male-dominated authority of the village and creates tension with Tok Hasan and other men.

What role does Honey play in the story?

Honey is the woman who opens the Laluna store. She is portrayed as a bold and independent character who defies the norms of the conservative village. Her actions serve as a catalyst for the exploration of themes like empowerment, freedom, and resistance to oppression.

How does the film balance heavy themes with lighter moments?

Despite dealing with serious themes like control, repression, and societal change, the film incorporates lighter, comedic moments, especially through the romance between Honey and Salihin. This helps balance the heavier narrative and adds a sense of fun, making the film more approachable and engaging.

What does the character of Tok Hasan represent?

Tok Hasan represents the fear of change and the dangers of rigid conservatism. His actions are driven by a desire to maintain control and reject anything that challenges his view of how things should be. He becomes a symbol of authoritarianism and resistance to progress.

What message does 'La Luna' convey about change?

'La Luna' promotes the idea that change, whether small or large, is inevitable. The film encourages viewers to embrace change rather than fear or resist it, emphasizing that growth and progress are necessary for individuals and societies to thrive.

How does the relationship between Honey and Salihin contribute to the film's message?

The romance between Honey and Salihin adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Initially, it could be seen as a potential cliché, but it instead subverts traditional gender roles and offers a nuanced take on masculinity and independence. Salihin's support of Honey showcases the importance of personal growth and breaking free from outdated expectations.

What criticisms or flaws does the film have, according to the review?

The film has a few flaws, including the character of Tok Hasan, whose transformation into an outright antagonist may feel exaggerated. The ending also relies on a somewhat coincidental encounter to resolve the conflict, which may feel contrived to some viewers. However, these issues are balanced by the overall warmth and satisfying conclusion.

How does the film use humor to address serious issues?

Humor is employed in the film through light-hearted moments, particularly the interactions between characters like Honey and Salihin. These moments offer a reprieve from the heavier themes of control and resistance to change, while also providing a means to address serious issues in a way that is more relatable and less oppressive.