01/04/2026

LYFE WEDNESDAY | APR 1, 2026

25

MOVIE REVIEW

0 Director: Nazifdin Nasrudin 0 Cast: Syafiq Kyle, Tracie Sinidol, Amir Nafis, Kodi Rasheed, Que Haidar, Juzzthin, Akmal Asyraf, Riezman Khuzaimi, and Cat Farish

Ű BY ASHIQIN AHMAD

D IRECTED by Nazifdin Nasrudin, Malaikat Malam arrives with the promise of high-octane action set against the gritty backdrop of Malaysia’s street racing culture. However, what unfolds is something far more subdued with a romance-driven narrative that leans into emotion rather than adrenaline. Story that shifts gears At its core, the film follows Azam, played by Syafiq Kyle, whose journey intertwines with a visually impaired girl Ratna (Tracie Sinidol), in a story that prioritises connection over chaos. They meet after Azam nearly crashes into her with his motorcycle during an illegal race – Ratna seems very cool about it as she does not hold any grudges or anger over an incident that almost takes her life. They form a sweet bond over time as Azam develops a soft spot for her, longing to take care of her after finding out she lives alone and away from her father. Azam lives with his older brother Arash (Que Haidar) who was once a reigning professional motorsport champion but is now a shell of his former self, wasting away into his drug addiction. The audience never gets a glimpse into Arash’s backstory and how he got into addiction, which felt like such a missed opportunity to add lore into the story. While the premise hints at danger, speed and rebellion, the execution takes a different route, placing relationships and inner conflict at the forefront. This tonal direction may come as a surprise to viewers expecting a gripping action film. In fact, those expecting the intensity of street racing sequences might find themselves waiting for a payoff that never fully arrives. The film builds tension in parts, only to cut away before reaching a satisfying climax, leaving certain moments feeling incomplete. Unfinished threads Narratively, Malaikat Malam shows promise but struggles with cohesion. Several plot twists are introduced with intrigue, yet they lack proper resolution, creating noticeable gaps in the storytelling. These unfinished arcs feel like missed opportunities and the film seems to expect audiences to overlook inconsistencies rather than confront them. In comparison to the OG rempit

PLOT

7

E-VALUE

7

ACTING

9

Azam picks up Ratna at her flat to go riding around the city on his motorcycle.

Street racing? Not so fast

Amir Nafis, Kodi Rasheed and Que Haidar, add texture to the story, each contributing to the film’s layered world. However, it is ultimately Syafiq who anchors the narrative and keeps it emotionally engaging. Promising but uneven debut As the directorial debut of Nazifdin Nasrudin, the film reflects ambition and growing pains. Having previously worked as a writer on projects such as Sheriff: Narko Integriti and Malam Terlarang , this marks his first time taking full control behind the camera. While the film does not fully hit its stride, it remains a commendable effort, particularly when considering its likely budget constraints. There is a clear sense of vision, even if the execution is not always consistent. Like a new captain learning to navigate, Nazifdin shows potential and it may simply take time before he fully finds his rhythm. Final verdict Malaikat Malam is a film caught between expectations and intention. It teases action but delivers romance, offering a visually polished and emotionally driven experience that may not satisfy everyone. For those willing to embrace its slower, more introspective approach, the film offers moments of beauty and sincerity. But for audiences seeking high-impact thrills, it may feel like a ride that never quite reaches top speed.

o Moody love story Malaikat Malam trades speed for sentiment

Ratna (left) and Azam live two completely different lives but form a deep connection with each other.

as Sekuntum Bunga Sakura Di Gurun Sahara by Mega adding a nostalgic and almost poetic layer to key scenes. The synergy between sound and visuals helps anchor the film, even when the narrative falters. Syafiq carries the film Performance-wise, Syafiq stands out as the film’s strongest asset. His portrayal of Azam feels grounded and authentic, bringing depth to a character that could have easily felt underwritten. His dialogue delivery is natural and convincing, allowing audiences to connect with his internal struggles. The supporting cast, including

the focus away from its edgier roots.

films that boomed in the early 2000s such as KL Menjerit , which also blends romance with street culture, the difference becomes clearer. While both films place emotional stakes at the centre, KL Menjerit delivers sharper pacing and more impactful racing sequences, resulting in a more balanced and polished narrative. Similarly, audiences familiar with the iconic 2006 Remp-It film may find Malaikat Malam misleading in tone. Where Remp-It leaned unapologetically into the raw and provocative nature of the rempit subculture, this film opts for a softer, more restrained portrayal, shifting

Visual, sonic win Where the film truly shines is in its presentation. Visually, Malaikat Malam is striking, with carefully composed shots and editing style that elevate even its quieter moments. Night scenes, in particular, are handled with finesse, creating an atmospheric backdrop that complements the film’s introspective tone. The soundtrack also deserves recognition. Thoughtfully curated, the music enhances the emotional rhythm of the story, with tracks such

Boy (Amir, right) is Azam’s rival in the racing scene – someone with a rich father and who often gets away with his crimes.

Arash struggles with his inner demons, barely clinging to his life due to his crippling addiction.