Adapted from the outstanding novel by Khadijah Hashim, Mira Edora tells a story about a mixed-race girl, who is the apple of every boy’s eye. However, as fate brings a new Bahasa Malaysia teacher into her school, the drama begins surrounding her as she grows infatuated with her new teacher. She also has to wrestle with her estranged relationship with her own mother, who coincidentally happens to be a past flame of her Bahasa Malaysia teacher. Mira, who is played by the infamous Julia Rais, a star during the late 1980s who had gained popularity after appearing in a Rejoice shampoo advertisement gave a stellar performance portraying a young, anarchic teen who thinks that the world revolves solely around her. That being said, Mira’s mother who is played by the incredible Noorkumalasari also gives the movie added thrill with her elegant attitude and stunning fashion sense.
Speaking about fashion sense, the movie itself just screams retro as the ensemble cast can be seen in Summer-of-Love-Esque bell-bottoms, big rimmed glasses, large jewelry, and vivid colors. The outfit that I loved the most is in the scene is where Mira cancels her tuition classes and goes out with one of the boys. The movie also features a great set design, especially in Mira’s house which appears cozy and homely, inviting the audience to live alongside these characters. The fashion and concept of the movie are really lovely, intermingled with the sense of nostalgia that comes about with watching old films in general.
However, it should be mentioned that the editing in the movie was a bit choppy due to the period in which it was made, but the characterization of each character helped balance things out. The director had chosen a good cast that acted out their roles really well and the script that came with it would might be considered predictable in this generation but well adapted for a 1990s crowd. The choice in music is also decidedly appropriate, compromising mostly of smooth jazz tunes that were a mainstay during the late 80s up to the early 90s.
Asides from the cinematography, editing, costume design and soundtrack of this movie, what I really loved the most that it’s not just a coming of age genre of a movie about a teen but it also depicts the irrevocable nature of fate. Everyone deserves love. It also focuses on friendships and the constant sassing between girls, and how sometimes a friend needs to be harsh in order for you to see the greater good. This can be seen when Mira runs away from home and lives with one of her friends. But most of all, it shows a love of a mother towards her child and how the bond between parent and child can always be mended.
Mira Edora is definitely a movie that everyone needs to watch regardless of the time in which it was filmed. The quirky characters and warm characters in it would be keeping you on your toes throughout the whole time. That being said, no one could have played the role of Mira better except for Julia Rais, who arguably is the biggest reason why you should watch this movie.
