Yasmine

Yasmine is a 2014 Bruneian film that features Liyana Yus as the lead actress, along with Reza Rahadian and Roy Sungkono. Directed by Siti Kamaluddin and co-written by Salman Aristo, the ground-breaking teenage drama showcases the timeless themes of love, family, and friendship. It’s a coming-of-age tale that reflects a universal narrative while maintaining a distinct Bruneian cultural perspective. Crafted with thoughtful filmmaking expertise, the storyline captures the hearts of viewers with its relatable themes.

The movie paints the story of a young, demure Brunei schoolgirl, Yasmine (played by Liyana Yus). An introverted teenager, Yasmine leads an ordinary life until she decides to pursue her passion —an apparently untapped interest in the combat sport of Silat. Her pursuit is more than a mere interest, as Yasmine wants to follow her father's footsteps to become a Silat champion. It upturns the cultural norms of a traditional society that sees Silat as a predominantly masculine sport, thus pushing the protagonist on a journey of self-assertion and empowerment.

Starring alongside Liyana Yus, Reza Rahadian plays the role of a Silat instructor who aids Yasmine in her arduous journey. Rahadian's character brings depth to the storyline as he embodies a sturdy pillar of support to the young female protagonist. Developing a bond over the shared love for martial arts, their interactions amplify the themes of mentorship and perseverance.

Also, the film showcases the excellent performance of Roy Sungkono. As a fellow schoolmate and Yasmine’s love interest, Sungkono brings in the element of teen romance that further intricate Yasmine’s journey. His character’s progression offers a heart-warming understanding of the power of love and friendship.

The appearance of the supporting cast including Yasmine’s father and friends rounds out the character-driven narrative. Furthermore, her father, played by Dato Indera Matthew Chong, leaves a resonating impression with his small, yet significant role.

Yasmine is not only about the protagonist's journey into the world of Silat. Simultaneously, it delves into the conventional themes of teenage life — the yearning to fit in, the dynamics of high school popularity, the tender yet overwhelming sense of first love, and the tumultuous relationship between typical adolescence rebellion and parental attention.

The movie gains its essence by beautifully weaving the intricate threads of the protagonist's fight to train and compete, the father-daughter relationship, her school experiences, and her vestal love interest. The rich juxtaposition of a traditional sport against the backdrop of a modern Bruneian high school adds to the unique charm of the film.

The culturally vibrant marketplaces and the serene beaches of Brunei, captured elegantly, add a layer of authenticity to the story. Not only does the film showcase the incredible beauty of Brunei, but it also sheds light on the lesser-known traditional martial art of Silat, giving Western audiences an engaging look into this part of Asian culture.

The film stands out with its captivating performances, crisp direction, and inviting storyline that adds a new dimension to the regular sports drama genre. Yasmine effectively addresses the struggles of pushing boundaries in a conservative society, laced with burgeoning teenage hormones.

One of the central merits of the film is its honest representation of Bruneian culture. The movie boasts of a 100% Bruneian cast and crew, thus making it a national cinematic pride and a cultural export of Brunei to the international film industry. It evokes a strong vibe of local flavor while encompassing a universal storyline that a wide range of audiences can resonate with.

Yasmine is not just a poignant tale of a young girl's quest for individual identity and personal triumphs against societal expectations. It is a culturally-rich narrative that educates and entertains in equal measures. A family drama, a teen romance, and a sports movie—Yasmine gracefully merges these genres into a engaging piece of cinema, offering a heart-warming viewing experience. This Bruneian gem allows viewers to explore a new culture, shattering stereotypes and glorifying the power of youth, courage, and determination.