Big Durian

The Big Durian

First of all I would like to say that “The Big Durian” is a very interesting show, where it helps us Malaysians to understand more about the politics that happened before. Before watching this movie, I did not know about the case of Private Adam’s amok because it happened in 1987 whereby I was one year old at that time. This documentary is done in a way that it is humorous and yet brings out the message of the scary event that happened at that time.

1. What scene in "The Big Durian" made an impression on you, and why?
The scene that gave me a major impression is the scene where they showed Private Adam’s face expression on the news paper. He was cool and calm. He sort of have the expression that showed he did not do anything wrong or he was relieved from his burden. The fact is he had killer whereby he killed the innocents but he does not have the guilt in him.

2. What was rumored to be Private Adam’s grouse/ reason which lead him to running amok?
The most popular rumours that are believed by the citizens of Malaysia are that the Sultan of Johore killed Private Adam’s brother. He reported the case but was ignored by the authorities because this case involved a higher position citizen that is the Sultan. At that period of time the Sultan of Johore had a very high control in Malaysia. I’m a Johore girl and my mom told me some stories about the Sultan of Johore. From what I heard, he was a big bully, he carries his gun where ever he goes and he does whatever he likes. I’ve heard that he slapped a waiter’s because he does not like his face and if he is not happy with that person he would just pull out his gun and pull the trigger. I would not know is it true facts or was it just rumours, it depends on what you belief. In Private Adam’s case, I belief that he was trying to get attention to the public about the official authorities not helping him whereby his brother was killed by a higher position person.

3. A character from Sabah ends her narrative by noting the look on Private Adam’s face. What was it that she saw and how does it contrast with her feelings?
The character from sabah said that she had a felt the freedom and peace when she saw Private Adam’s expression, she feels that Kuala Lumpur is a place where most of the dangerous things or events would occur and she feels unsafe to be staying in KL.

4. From what historical point is the director viewing the events of 1987? What is the “present” of the documentary and what’s it’s mood?
The director is trying to create some politic awareness to the public as the public are not aware of what is going on to the society today. The director tries to make the documentary in a funny way where younger generation would prefer to watch it and have an idea the events that happened in 1987.