Title : Cheritera
Year : 2001
Director : Erwin Argh
Cast (voices) : Ahmad Tarmimi Serigar, M. Rajoli, Vanida Imran, Azmil Mustapha, Rosnani Jamil, Hafiz Asyaraf, Ebby Yus, etc.

Reviewer : Nurhaili Nasarudin
Rating : **1/2

Cheritera - review by Nurhaili Nasarudin

This movie is an animated cartoon that focuses on three short fable stories that was told to three children, who were spending their weekend with their grandparents. It should come as no surprise that if we were to compare this animation flick with the big guns of Disney; this movie is way behind in terms of quality. However this was a good trial and error since it’s their first animated cartoon of such genre with this production company.

I like the way the story was delivered accordingly and the mixture of humour throughout Cheritera. Not only that, the movie is also instrumental in retelling popular folk tales told to kids.

The worst part of the movie is the screening production of the animation and the lack of subtitles. The general quality of animated filming was not as clear-cut, as you can see the computer (boxes)-graphics appearing off hand. It distracts the eyes of the audience while watching the animation. Although Cheritera is a Malay cartoon, I think having English subtitles would draw in other races (who may not be fluent in the Malay language) to watch it as well.

The voices behind the scenes were mostly Malaysian actors that were quite articulate with their performance. Although there was one folk/fable story that was told in an Indonesian slang, it was still clear enough to grasp the conversation.

I would personally change the animation cartoon, making it three-dimensional figures that seemed much real than flat-faced cartoons. Also, adding more animal/natural animations rather than comic superheroes would in fact be something unique in producing cartoons.

The movie can be graded as an OK film, but if you were to ask the kids, they will have a much different view on the movie, as compared to mine. Its cartoons that the kids are crazy for, so this movie is no different to a child (except for the fact that this was made by Malaysians). Kids would definitely enjoy this movie and I think it has what it takes to entertain the parents and grandparents as well. I would encourage all Malaysian to watch and support our Malaysian production in this animation effort, despite the comments I have made.

My thoughts on this movie are exceptionally good. This is because this is the company’s first production of animated cartoons. We all know that Disney spends millions with their productions to get the quality that they want, so in a way, we should be please to know that no expenses were spared for this effort, with an estimated budget of approximately RM1 million. It’s a start and I do hope there will be further improvement in terms of good quality animation that will impress other countries. The movie features not only good stories but also guidance on morality and culture for kids in the future.

Source : http://www.cinemaonline.com.my (13/9/2001)