Great sequel with a positive message

Indonesian film AyatAyat Cinta 2 delivers yet another poignant look at human relationships, writes

SCREENED a decade ago, was about a young man named Fahri, who married the woman of his choice, Aisha. Fahri, a pious man studying at the renowned Al-Azhar Universityin Cairo, Egypt,soon encountered many challenges in his life as well as marriage.

One thing then led to another and Fahri was eventually coerced into marrying another woman.

The film, which carried a religious drama aspect, highlighted sensitive issues about polygamous marriage, religion and faith.

The Hanung Bramantyo film’s riveting and uncommon storyline made it one of Indonesia’s most successful screen releases.

Malaysians too were hooked on the

phenomena.

So it was only natural that when there was news of a sequel, local fans were ecstatic.

The sequel, which premiered recently, sees Fedi Nuril reprising his role as Fahri, who is now much older.

The character has transformed from a post-graduate student in pursuit of affirming his faith in Islam while dealing with life issues into a successful businessman-cum-lecturer at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.

His wife, Aisha (previously played by Rianti Cartwright) is not in the picture this time as Fahri has lost contact with her since she left for a humanitarian mission in Gaza, Palestine.

Forced to live a life without Aisha, Fahri waits patiently to hear from her and prays for her safe return. He finds solace in his daily work.

In Edinburgh, Fahri’s neighbours are of various races and different religions, very much like those in the first film.

The sequel, however, introduces a line-up of new characters.

Hulya (Tatjana Saphira, left) in a scene from the movie.

Alongside Fahri, Tatjana Saphira plays Hulya, Aisha’s cousin who plans to pursue her studies at the university where Fahri teaches.

Chelsea Islan takes on the role of Keira, a hot-tempered woman with dreams of becoming a professional violinist and virtuoso.

Dewi Sandra plays Sabina, a troubled woman who finds shelter at Fahri’s house, working as a helper.

Interestingly, the Indonesian cast is joined by our very own Bront Palarae and Nur Fazura Sharifudin, who play supporting characters.

MATURED REPRISAL

Revisiting a role that Fedi had played 10 years ago was not as complicated as viewers might think.

“It’s a build-up to a new character. The Fahri 10 years ago isn’t the same as the

Dewi Sandra plays Sabina.

current Fahri. He still has a good heart of course and has evolved into a matured individual.

“My favourite part about playing Fahri in this sequel is that he teaches me about tolerance,” said Fedi.

His character of a man living as a minority in Edinburgh, being both Indonesian and a Muslim,is of course, different from his real life.

“The true meaning of tolerance is learnt when you live as a minority in a foreign place. You observe how people react towards you, and how you respond reflects how forgiving you are.

“This is what I love about the sequel, it digs further into the heartbreaking reality of sensitive issues like racism and Islamophobia. It also delivers lessons on love in the most endearing way,” he added.

Was there a scene Fedi found particularly hard to deliver?

“Oh boy, there were plenty! A lot of times we have to cry, and that is already challenging.

“But for a particular scene, the director said to only let my tears flow from my right eye and only cry after a specific line in my dialogue.

“That was exhausting and extremely challenging. At the end of it, I couldn’t deliver what I was instructed to do,” he said.

ADDING COLOUR

When was released, Tatjana was only 10. It never crossed the 20-year-old’s mind that she would land a lead role in a film as big as this.

“Honestly, at 10 I didn’t understand the conflict portrayed in the plot, but I remembered that it was a very touching story.

“I knew how big was, so it was a no-brainer to accept the role of Hulya.

“Hulya adds colour to the story, as she is the most vibrant and happy-go-lucky character compared to Sabina and Keira.

“Initially I felt pressured as I wanted to