Bibi Nurshuhada Ramli

Bachok (Zulhuzaimy, right) tries to persuade Dayang (Siti Elizad) into forgetting Awang.

Directed by Majed Salleh.Starring Farid Kamil, Zulhuzaimy, Hattan, Khir Rahman, Siti Eliizad, Kuwasdinata, M. Rajoli, Datuk Mustapha Maarof, Uji Rashid, Mei Ling Ludi.IT is something to be proud of when the local film industry tries to produce an epic movie. However, not all first tries are successful.

Adapted from the 1957 novel of the same name, this romantic and tragic story revolves around Awang, who sails for three months, one of the conditions he must fulfil before marrying his beloved fiancee Dayang. Before leaving, he and Dayang promise that they would remain loyal to each other. Bachok, who has had his eye on Dayang, takes this opportunity to make his move on her. Dayang begins to feel guilty of her growing feelings towards Bachok. Awang, in the meantime, also faces a similar distraction from a Dutch woman he works for.

Lembing Awang Pulang Ke Dayang has many flaws that could have been corrected but were ignored, affecting the whole movie. The biggest blunder is in the sound department, where the background noise either drowns or clashes with the dialogue from the characters. There are a few scenes where this happens, making it hard for the audience to catch what is being said. The fight scenes, in which the cast display an impressive command of silat, have not been captured well on film.

However, Lembing Awang Pulang Ke Dayang’s plot is one of its redeeming qualities. The storyline moves slowly at first and builds up to a dramatic climax. Despite the poor characterisation, you will find yourself wanting to know how the story ends. Another thing to look out for in the movie are the rich and opulent costumes. From the fine lace to the intricately-woven songket, and from Dayang’s kebaya to Awang’s sleeveless tunic, the costumes look a perfect fit.

Farid Kamil, who has the lead role as Awang, appears dull and bland. Apart from the dynamic fight scenes, he is like a moody boy who has lost his favourite toy.
Dayang’s character also suffers from the same fate. Since she is a graceful and desirable woman in the village, the director was probably trying to show the demure side of Dayang. Unfortunately, she comes across as being weak and spineless.

Siti Elizad was the fourth actress to be offered this role, after Fasha Sandha, Maya Karin and Natasha Hudson, but her acting will leave you wondering if the other three wouldn’t have done a better job. Zulhuzaimy steals the show as Bachok, the lustful womaniser who goes after Dayang even before Awang leaves on his journey. Bachok’s attempts at wooing Dayang are nauseating to watch but show that Zulhuzaimy understood the role and became one with the character.

Profil Berkaitan

 Lembing Awang Pulang Ke Dayang    Majed Salleh    Farid Kamil    Zul Huzaimy     Hattan    Khir Rahman    Kuswadinata    M.Rajoli    Dato' Mustapha Maarof    Ejad    Uji Rashid    Lynette Ludi    Fasha Sandha    Maya Karin    Datin Natasha Hudson