The supernatural thriller "Interchange" enhanced by photographic images with a cultural touch made police procedure investigating a murder became so mysterious. It is noted to depict leisure even with the crime scenes.
Beautiful plots and mixture of tasteful exoticism set it apart from Koren or Hollywood style, said Malaysian director Dain Iskander Said. Perhaps the reason why it is included in prestigious film festivals such as Locarno, London, and Singapore film fest - after it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Adam (Iedil Putra), a forensic photographer was traumatized after accidentally became a witness in a murder but the same crime happened anew but the irony is, the uncovered photographs containing images of his neighbor Iva (Prisia Nasution), look like they were taken ages ago.
Despite having no knowledge to the new crime, Adam is convinced by Man, the investigating detective to help him because he believes that Adam is vital to the solution of the mystery that lead them into the underworld of ancient magical myths in Kuala Lumpur, as described by the Toronto International Film Festival website.
The belief that white photographers could steal souls or Tingangs, a medium to immortalize subjects is a cultural myth. It's not known how Tingang's souls are trapped and remained in the past, and why the affected suffer more than the dead.
Belian, the Indonesian heartthrob (Nicholas Suprata), is shown in a hooded figure with a pointed nose that gives the supernatural look adds to the mystery. Said's fantasy plot implies that spiritualism tradition can be connected to issues of colonialism as contrasted by modern technology.
It is difficult not to be lured by the charisma and engaging personality of each cast who has their own distinctive character. Enhanced by Zaharah Nakibullah, production designs and brilliantly designed costumes by designer Akma Suryati added to its ability to exceed the standard Malaysian cinema quality, according to Variety.
