Movie Review: Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa

THE MALAY CHRONICLES : BLOODLINES (HIKAYAT MERONG MAHAWANGSA) SYNOPSIS

Based loosely on the 16th century historical document entitled ‘The Malay Annals’, ’The Chronicles of Merong Mahawangsa’ is an action-packed epic feature film, with mythical characters, magical moments and dazzling visual-effects sequences. Merong Mahawangsa was a descendant of Alexander the Great, a renowned naval captain and traveler who came to Asia several hundred years ago.

The year is 120 AD… a time when the Roman Empire is at the height of its power, during the reign of Hadrian – one of the Five Good Emperors. Meanwhile in China, the Han Dynasty is firmly cemented as the ruling empire and is expanding into Central Asia… one hundred years before the period of the Three Kingdoms. As the Roman fleet did their repairs and traded in Goa, they asked Merong Mahawangsa to escort a Roman prince to Southeast Asia, to wed a beautiful Chinese princess from the Han Dynasty. The Chinese princess and the Roman prince are supposed to meet halfway and be married on neutral grounds.

However, the pirate nation of Geruda had other plans. They decided to kidnap the Chinese princess and use her as ransom. En route to the Straits of Melaka, Merong Mahawangsa’s fleet was attacked by Geruda’s forces while stopping at a small island to replenish supplies.

Will Merong Mahawangsa be able to rescue the Princess and re-unite her with her betrothed in a marriage that is set to bring together two great civilizations from the East and West ?

The movie trailer

After waching the movie.. 

It is easier to criticize (by just typing a few lines) but it is never easy to make a movie in Malaysia with limited budget and limited market. Yusry (Director) gave his heart and soul to direct the movie even at one point of time almost giving up and was giving instruction while lying down because he is sea-sick. At a budget of RM8 Million of USD2.7 Million is nothing compared to the failures of some hollywood movies with a budget of more than USD100 million.
I love the music background & sound effect! Of course, before watching 8Million worth Malaysian movie I expect something outstanding. But, going to the movie with some high expectations, i am eventually very impressed! Personally, I believe there should be a lot more realistic action, better dialogs, better angles and editing. However, the director has done a good job although he may not be able to satisfy every single audience. Overall, the product is very good. The attempt to make an epic-action movie is satisfactory. Great effort!