Is Lagi-Lagi Krisis Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1955)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Lagi-Lagi Krisis, a standout production of 1955, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Comedy, Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Husin bin Said (Udjang) suddenly got the inspiration to become a shaman. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Comedy, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Husin bin Said (Udjang) suddenly got the inspiration to become a shaman. He put up a nameplate. So in droves of people came asking for help: people who intend to become cultural attaches, members of parliament, wives of officials whose husbands are dating again, producers, aspiring film stars, etc. For some reason, film producer Henry Bross (S. Bono) and aspiring film star Mimi (Diana Subroto) have succeeded in making Husin try their best to help carry out their intention. This story is also the main pillar of the film, besides being an opportunity for the director to mock the world of film. Moreover, then came Husin's friend, Pedro (Rd. Ismail), an old and unused performer who still had illusions about his triumph as an actor. Husin's house is next door to the family of Jaka Prawira-Mariam (R. Sukarno, Tina Melinda). To this house came their in-laws, RA Berlian (Edifah Hanoem), a controlling noble."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Tina Melinda provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Usmar Ismail is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 109 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Lagi-Lagi Krisis truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Comedy, Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Lagi-Lagi Krisis explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1955 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Usmar Ismail respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Lagi-Lagi Krisis is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Tina Melinda or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Lagi-Lagi Krisis is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.