Sumpitan Rachun (1961), 97 mins, PG, In Malay with English Subtitles
Timing: Sunday, 26 May | 2pm
Venue: Oldham Theatre, 1 Canning Rise, Singapore
Fee: $10
Registration Link: http://shf24sumpitanrachun.peatix.com/
A year after Singapore’s master-detective Inspector Latiff (S. Roomai Noor) was introduced solving three mysteries in Hantu Rimau, he’s back for Sumpitan Rachun, trying to unravel one long and deliriously convoluted criminal conspiracy which involves a murdered policeman, a glamorous night-club singer (Latiffah Omar), an orientalist magician, and an attempted diamond robbery at Tanjong Pagar Station. As per the first film the charming and flirtatious Latiff is accompanied by his forensic doctor sidekick (Mary Lim). The Cathay Building is a key location - named after the company who produced the film during the latter days of the Malay film boom in Singapore. It’s the perfect setting for uncovering dastardly deeds among Singapore’s wealthy elite. Sadly, this was the final film outing for Pelham Groom’s creation, but it’s highly entertaining, with lots of wonderful locations, contemporary details and stylish noir-influenced cinematography.
Part of the programme Cinema Reclaimed: DREAM PALACES. Organised in partnership with Asian Film Archive.