The Arsonist

A slow, brooding study of a boy caught between fear and pride, watching his father's quiet rage smolder until it burns.

Directed by

U-Wei Haji Saari

Genres

Drama

Starring

Khalid Salleh, Bell Ngasri, Kuswadinata

Overview

The Arsonist involves the struggles of an undocumented immigrant family and a boy's coming-of-age. The son Kesuma must forge his own identity against the intimidating presence of his father Kakang, a man proud of his Javanese heritage and well aware of the social inequalities that allow his exploitation. Kakang counteracts by torching the property of those who slight him, leaving Kesuma simultaneously proud, fearful and ashamed. A clash of wills is all but inevitable. The film climaxes in a poignant conflagration, literal and metaphorical.

How it feels

Dark, tense, melancholic and earnest. Slow-burning and demanding.

About

Identity, coming-of-age, family, class

Content

Mild violence and language. No gore or sexual content.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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