Cinema
Leila Majnun
B. S. Rajhans · 1934
Synopsis
Leila and Majnun: following the legend that came from the Arab and Persian world, two young people of different social ranks love each other in spite of what separates them, and their passion runs up against families and customs. The narrative, spoken and sung in classical Malay, is interspersed with Arab and Egyptian dances and with songs, in the manner of the bangsawan theatre from which the performers came.
Context
The producer Hurdutroy Motilal Chamria, of Bombay, wanted a Malay version of an Indian film based on the same legend, shot and produced in Singapore. The director chose his performers from among the stars of bangsawan, including the singer Fatimah binti Jasman and Syed Ali Mansoor. The film was released in March 1934, for the feast of Eid al-Adha, and played to full houses; no copy is known to survive.
Who it is for
A lost film, known only through the press and the advertisements of the time; it interests the history of cinema more than the viewer.
Prizes and reception
Regarded as the first Malay film shot in Singapore; its success paved the way for the golden age of Malay cinema.