Is Plong (Naik Daun) Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1991)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Drama, Comedy cinema, the 1991 release of Plong (Naik Daun) stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Darma (Deddy Mizwar), the owner of several companies, suddenly appoints his horse trainer, Ucha (Cok Simbara), as director of one of his businesses that was previously managed by old friends of Darma from the revolutionary period. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama, Comedy 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: "Darma (Deddy Mizwar), the owner of several companies, suddenly appoints his horse trainer, Ucha (Cok Simbara), as director of one of his businesses that was previously managed by old friends of Darma from the revolutionary period. Ucha attempts to revamps the company as expected, but his efforts are all undermined by Darma’s old friends. Ucha also runs into trouble at home, when his chubby wife lets his new position as director and her status as wife of the director go to her head. She is insistent that she needs a makeover and that their house needs upgrading in line with their new social status. As these various conflicts reach a head, Ucha finally confronts Darma with the reality of his friends’ betrayal, and threatens to quit. Darma understands the situation, but cannot bring himself to fire his old friends."

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 performance by Deddy Mizwar is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Deddy Mizwar captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Putu Wijaya is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 102 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 Plong (Naik Daun) 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 Drama, Comedy, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 10/10 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, Plong (Naik Daun) explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1991 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Putu Wijaya 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, Plong (Naik Daun) is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Deddy Mizwar or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Plong (Naik Daun) is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.