Pasir Berbisik (Alternate Title:
Whispering Sand) | 2001 | 1h 46m
Genre: Drama | Country: Indonesia
Director: Nan Triveni Achnas | Writers:
Nan Triveni Achnas, Rayya Makarim
Cast: Christine Hakim, Dian
Sastrowardoyo, Slamet Rahardjo
IMDB: 7.2
My Rate: 8/10
Berlian struggles to survive and protect her daughter, Daya, from the conflict in their village by embarking on a journey to find a new refuge. However, she faces disappointment when her husband returns home.
Warning:Contains violence, sensuality, and smoking.
Synopsis:
Daya (Dian Sastrowardoyo) lives in a village amidst the desert with her mother, Berlian (Christine Hakim). Her father, a puppeteer, has disappeared, leaving her and her mother behind. Daya yearns for his return, hoping to escape her mother's strict control over her life.
Berlian works as a herbal medicine seller in the village to make ends meet. The village is rife with conflict, making her fiercely protective of Daya, especially as she enters adolescence. Daya's social life is heavily restricted, and Berlian never calls her by her name, only referring to her as "Anak" (child).
Berlian's entire family has left the village. Her sister, a dancer, visits occasionally. Daya enjoys these visits, as she gets to hear stories, including those about her father's past.
Berlian receives a warning from her sister to leave the village and head towards Pasir Putih (White Sand). Despite the warning, she ignores it until their home is set ablaze. Forced to act, Berlian takes Daya on a journey to Pasir Putih.
The aimless journey is arduous, but they eventually reach Pasir Putih. They find an abandoned hut and decide to stay there. They receive help from Suwito (Didi Petet), who harbors ill intentions towards Daya. Matters worsen when Daya's father returns, rendering Berlian's efforts to protect her daughter futile.
What will become of Daya?
Review:
Pasir Berbisik boasts a compelling storyline and equally captivating setting. A standing ovation is due to the cast and crew for their remarkable work. Filming under the scorching desert sun is no easy feat, and the actors, with their dedication, even shot barefoot. Yet, they managed to deliver an exceptional performance.
The story focuses on the patriarchal system as the root of many problems. This is evident in the struggles faced by women, such as the prevalence of abortion, the objectification of Daya by men, and the arbitrary burning of their home by men. Although the specific underlying causes of the conflict are not explicitly stated, the film subtly highlights these issues.
The narrative unfolds systematically, from the beginning, through the conflicts, to a well-executed resolution. The music and sound effects are well chosen. The camera movement and color composition are also impressive. Even the makeup and costumes worn by the characters effectively support the storyline.
The acting is undoubtedly commendable. Dian, at the tender age of 19, showcases captivating acting skills, earning her several awards. She confidently shares the screen with veteran actors and actresses. The performances of the other actors, both main and supporting, are equally impressive and natural. The use of artistic dialogue adds to the film's beauty.
Overall, Pasir Berbisik is a film that not
only presents a captivating story but also visually delights viewers with the
stunning natural beauty captured on screen.
Memorable Scene:
During their aimless journey, Daya asks her mother where they are going, if her aunt and father know their destination, and if they will be found. With a whirlwind of thoughts swirling in her head, Berlian can only offer a vague answer.
This scene vividly portrays the turmoil in
Berlian's mind through her expressions. We often fail to understand the noise
in someone's head, the constant pressure and questions. However, the scene
showcases Berlian's unwavering focus on finding a solution to her problems.
Memorable Dialogue:
"Every newcomer brings new sand."
Ending:
Sad Ending
Recommendation:
Worth to Watch
(Aluna)
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