Wiro Sambleng: Pendekar Kapak Maut Naga Geni 212

WE OFTEN use the idiom greater than the sum of its parts to describe something that is better than we expected.
Wiro Sambleng: Pendekar Kapak Maut Naga Geni 212 (Crazy Warrior: Master of the Fire Dragon Death Axe 212) is the exact opposite of that.
The parts were good but when put together, it didn't come out as great as it should.
Based on a series of novels-turned-comic and live-action TV series, Wiro Sambleng (which will be known in international release as the less cumbersome 212 Warrior) follows the story of the titular hero (Vino G. Bastian) from the night he became an orphan to the night he confronts the man who murdered his parents in cold blood.
The movie is packed with interesting and unique characters, wonderfully choreographed silat fights, and is a beautiful sight to behold. I have never seen an Indonesian movie, set in a fantastic-looking 16th century, look so glorious.
Characters like Sinto Gendeng (Ruth Marini), the old hag that taught Wiro martial arts, ruthless villain Mahesa Birawa (Yayan Ruhian), and even a side character like Dewa Tuak (Restu Triandy) are fun and memorable.
But, all of them were underutilised.
Wiro Sambleng is the first collaboration between an Indonesian studio with Fox International Production. In other words, the source material is rich and the production value is high.
However, where the movie falters is in its execution.
Wiro Sambleng is a mischievous character, a la the Monkey King.
This humour sets the tone of the movie, but at the detriment of pacing.
Many scenes that could have been used to develop character is wasted on misplaced comedy.
I really wanted to like this movie.
It was really charming.
Nevertheless, the lack of character development and the rushed story telling, despite the 123-minute run time, puts this movie firmly in the realm for children and fans of the original source material.
Those who grew up on the original TV series would recognise Herning Sukendro, the original actor who played Wiro Sambleng in the TV series in a cameo appearance, and children would appreciate all the silly jokes and action scenes.
For the rest of us, Wiro Sambleng looks like a missed potential.
Note that there is a mid credit scene that sets up a sequel.

Wiro Sambleng: Pendekar Kapak Maut Naga Geni 212 opens in cinemas nationwide on Sept 27.