I’ve never been a huge fan of Malaysian movies, especially when it comes to the horror genre. Often, they feel predictable and lack the chilling edge that keeps me on the edge of my seat. However, there was one film that truly broke the mould and left a lasting impression.
Unlike the usual fare, this movie had a gripping storyline, compelling characters and genuinely eerie moments that kept me captivated from start to finish.
RAHSIA
This 2023 Malaysian horror film has apparently grabbed people’s attention with its creepy and suspenseful storyline.
Directed by Shamyl Othman and written by Alfie Palermo, it’s a fresh take on the 1987 classic of the same name directed by Shamyl’s dad, Othman Hafsham.
Produced by Astro Shaw along with Five Star Trading and Kuman Pictures, it features an impressive cast including Nabila Huda, Fikry Ibrahim, Eman Manan, and Marsha Milan. I’ll be honest with you.
As I said earlier, I’m not a huge fan of Malaysian movies, but I know if Nabila Huda is in it, it’s got to be good.
Back to the movie – Rahsia revolves around a woman named Ramlah (Nabila Huda), who heads home for the holidays to celebrate her father Tan Sri Karim’s (Eman Manan) birthday.
She’s joined by her husband, Hamdan (Fikry Ibrahim), as they all come together for what should be a joyous family gathering.
Ramlah and Hamdan have two children – Marina (Qistina Raisah) and Saiful (Syed Ali Murtadha). This is when things take a dark turn. Saiful suddenly disappears during a beach picnic.
While the police believe Saiful vanished on the beach, Ramlah begins to be haunted by visions of her son.
As she struggles with this loss, strange and spooky events start to haunt her, causing her husband to doubt her sanity. This psychological drama makes for a chilling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Not only does the film pay tribute to the original, but it also adds a modern twist, making it a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers. Shamyl Othman’s direction ensures Rahsia stands out in the current Malaysian horror scene, combining strong performances and a gripping plot to deliver a truly spine-tingling experience.
EMOTIONAL JOURNEY
Watching Rahsia, I felt it brought a fresh approach to the horror genre, blending elements of mystery and supernatural intrigue seamlessly.
While I enjoyed the movie, I’d have to be honest that on the scare meter, it was about a solid six for me.
The obvious coloured contact lenses worn by the “possessed” characters took away some of the fear factor.
Despite this, the movie had me in tears quite often. I’d like to blame it on my current hormone levels, but it does make you reflect on the immense struggles a woman faces as a mother, daughter, and wife.
The film delves into the secret kept from Ramlah about her own mother, and her sanity is questioned when she loses her son.
As a mother, I couldn’t help but wonder how I would react if I were in Ramlah’s shoes, dealing with the same harrowing experiences.
The emotional weight of her journey is profound and thought-provoking, making you appreciate the resilience and strength required to navigate such challenges.
Nabila Huda carried Ramlah’s character exceptionally well, and I was also impressed by young Qistina’s acting. Their performances added depth to the film, making it a memorable watch despite its few shortcomings.
All in all, Rahsia was a refreshing change that did not disappoint, proving that with the right elements, Malaysian horror can indeed deliver a memorable experience. The film’s blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and emotional depth set it apart from typical horror movies. It skilfully intertwines a story that is not just about scares, but also about the human condition and familial bonds. – Izah Azahari
