Don Dukun, directed by Wan Hafiz, brings a fresh, modern twist to traditional shaman practices, blending horror and comedy as it follows the journey of Don Arif (played by Zul Arifin), a social media-savvy shaman who aims to go viral. Accompanied by his trusty assistant Jaafar (Ropie Cecupak), Arif’s attempts to mix spiritual healing with influencer antics set the stage for a unique but uneven cinematic experience.
Going into Don Dukun, the trailer hinted at a similar vibe to Tiga Janda Melawan Dunia, a standout Malaysian film known for its humorous approach and heartfelt character dynamics. But while Don Dukun certainly leans into the horror-comedy genre, it falls short of delivering the same balance of humor and heart. The potential is there, but the movie doesn’t fully capitalize on its premise.
Plot Analysis and Execution
The film kicks off with Don Arif as an untraditional shaman eager to expand his online following. Arif's newfound fame peaks when he "cures" a possessed woman in a widely publicized ceremony during a Shaman Convention, catapulting him into the limelight. But as intriguing as the premise sounds, Don Dukun faces issues with scene transitions and pacing, which detract from the flow and overall impact of the storyline. The choppy editing and abrupt shifts between scenes make it hard for the viewer to fully immerse in Arif’s story or connect with the other characters’ roles.
Character Dynamics: A Missed Opportunity?
Zul Arifin’s portrayal of Don Arif feels somewhat forced in the comedic aspect. Although Zul Arifin is a talented actor, his comedic timing in Don Dukun doesn’t quite land, making it clear that his strengths may lie outside this genre. In contrast, Ropie Cecupak’s portrayal of Jaafar, the quirky and loyal assistant, is the true comedic heart of the film. Ropie brings a natural charm and humor that consistently lifts scenes, giving the movie its much-needed laughs and keeping viewers engaged. This dynamic might have worked better with a different actor in the lead or a shift in Arifin's character tone.
Verdict
While Don Dukun delivers some laughs thanks to Ropie’s standout performance, the movie lacks the cohesiveness and charm that made Tiga Janda Melawan Dunia so memorable. For those who enjoy local horror-comedy and don’t mind a few missteps, Don Dukun might still be worth a watch. However, it’s hard to shake the feeling that with smoother pacing and a different cast approach, the movie could have reached greater heights.
If you’re a fan of Ropie or the horror-comedy genre, you’ll likely find some enjoyment here. But for viewers expecting Don Dukun to deliver the same magic as Tiga Janda, this film falls just short.
Rating: 6/10
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