Ejen Ali: The Movie (2019) User Reviews

When an animation studio still remembers why they make animation

[anonnh · 9/10 · 30 November 2019]

Nothing is perfect, this was no exception. But what matters is you can see how much effort and heart was put into making this movie. Feels like a breath of fresh air in the time of pointless live action and sequels.

Best local movie of the year. Or I dare say one of the best animated movie of the year, internationally.

Watch this for the heart.

It's good to watch it many times

[eacyber · 9/10 · 5 March 2020]

The best animation I have ever watched in my entire life. The movement of the animation is very smooth and some aspects such as hair, skin are very detailed. Although the animation graphics are not as good as the Disney, Pixar or Dreamworks animated films, they have reached a much better level.

I am very interested in the storyline in this film, from Ali who initially felt no longer needed until he became a hero really impressed me (Looks character development). The plot is neat and arranged regularly. There is nothing to think about in depth to see this story. The plot twist in this film is pretty good though it's not mind blown. I was also impressed with the actions that were exhibited (from the beginning to the end the action was really cool).

The soundtrack in this film is very timely when there is a scene that takes place. And here what I like the most in this film is the music score. I am very impressed with the music score that he uses because it makes my emotions increase from feeling happy, tense to sad (Music scores have reached international level).

So, this film is suitable for children and even teenagers to adults will love it. I as a fan of Ejen Ali from season 1 to season 2 are very satisfied with the film that has been produced by Wau Animation. If I am asked about the movie rating given, I give a rating of 9.6 / 10

Best Malay animation movie so far

[ldhunterz · 9/10 · 30 November 2019]

The movie was amazing. It has great animation, great character, epic plot twist and also a pinch of Naruto to spice things up a bit... quite sad. To those who had never seen Naruto may not understand what I'm trying to say, but if you've watch it before you'll understand. The movie also has good character growth, cuz you'll see how Ali has grown through out the movie. There's also that part about his family.... Mannnn what a plot twist it was.

The best Malaysian animation film so far

[ctfairusahmad · 10/10 · 3 December 2019]

A fresh intro, unexpected villains, and fast-pace animation action movie. I think teenagers and adult may appreciate this movie better than under age kids. Worth the time and money spent.

Wow..Just wow!!

[ahmadnazreeabdrahim · 10/10 · 6 December 2019]

Please release it to the international screen. This movie deserve to be seen and appreciated by the international community. Thank you WAU for producing such a high quality film.

I created this account just to give this movie 10star.

[Radmuxt · 10/10 · 2 December 2019]

I came in the movie with the highest expectation because of all the good review. All the review are on point!

worth every ringgit, worth every second, worth the effort creating this account.

Hope they receive the appreciation they deserve! Congrats WAU Animation.

Incredibly incredible!

[riniamira · 10/10 · 10 December 2019]

I am a huuuge fan of marvel's avengers and the endgame movie has topped as my no 1 movie ranking, personally. And i dare say that ejen ali the movie is very close to dethrone the endgame ranking! If endgame is at ranking no 1, i would say ejen ali is 1.5, after 1 but before 2. I watched the movie two times and still it shakes my emotion with that one touching family scene! The fighting scenes were superb. The background music, ah. Splendid! On point! So on point! Matched so so well with every scene. I would recommend everyone to watch it twice. Watch the movie and then binge watch the series, and go watch the movie again. You'll definitely have better understanding and emotional attachment with it. So worth it, and definitely not just a typical cartoon movie with kids as its target audience. Believe me, you will feel proud watching it after the movie ended. Bertindak segera!

Agent of fun, action and drama

[razlanisme · 10/10 · 2 December 2019]

Back in 2005, a short 3D animation "Misi Mustahak" was the talk of the town due to its technological advancement and refreshing storyline. It is a final year student project by a group of Film & Animation majors (my seniors) at Multimedia University, Cyberjaya (MMU). I still remember how it was a compulsory piece in MMU promotional materials, showcases, and first year student orientations.

One of them went on and founded WAU Animation Sdn Bhd. 11 years later Ejen Ali was born and quickly gaining popularity and following, kids and adults alike. Fast forward to 2019, the much anticipated Ejen Ali: The Movie landed on the big screen and what a beautiful film it is, showcasing how much the local animation has become.

The multi-cultural Malaysia is not shoved directly to your face like a typical Ali-Muthu-Ah Wong trope, instead it's subtle and jives in so well with the whole theme. The batik headscarf, 'gasing' (spinning top) as a weapon, a boomerang that looks like 'kerambit', the Mamak Maju song/dance - just to name a few.

The whole cast is diverse both in styles and characters, which is so fun to watch. They are also very relatable: caring uncle with a hidden narrative? Check. Hasty apprentice that looks up to his mentor? Check. My 3 year old daughter kept referring to herself as the fierce Ejen Alicia and stayed in character until the next morning.

Ali is undoubtedly the star of the show, stealing the spotlight in every scene he's in. I personally like how they play with the subtle expressions and monologues to show Ali's internal crisis - not something easily achieved especially in a kid's film. He's also given a much deserved backstory that wasn't known until the film.

The villain is also very refreshing to watch. No-drama, quite multi-layered and stayed away from the "I want to conquer the world" type. It's someone who was molded into a baddie by circumstances and different ideology. It actually reminds me of Thanos. The plot-twist also caught me by surprise!

Being an action animated film, Ejen Ali has some of the best action sequences in all Malaysian film history, live action films included. Some of the chase and fight scenes got my heart racing and holding my son tight. All these are underscored by music and sound effects that fit really well with the rest (shout out to Altimet!).

Another thing that stands out in the film is the strong lessons portrayed. Family bond, friendships, conscience, helping the needy, and much more which makes it a complete package for the whole family. There are enough heartwarming scenes to leave you teary-eyed. Even the guy sitting next to me was sobbing towards the final scene! (tips: bring tissue paper).

Ejen Ali is a proof that a "cartoon" is not just for kids and mere entertainment. It's also a big stepping stone for the animation industry in Malaysia. As someone who is also in the creative industry I definitely feel a sense of proud and can't wait to see what's next.

Ejen Ali : Not bad

[NajmiSelamat · 7/10 · 10 March 2021]

Good movie with good action and a good moral value. But i dont really feel it. Maybe because my expectation is too high.

A hype movie give false by a fan

[irhamyusof · 1/10 · 2 December 2019]

Just like the Last Jedi this mediocre movie was hype by the studio and "fan" because they didn't believe this movie can stand on it's feet.

Don't get me wrong it's not a bad movie, hell the visual is Megamind level, the music(finally a great music in Malay movie), the voice acting is better than most Malay animation cough boboboy cough. The only downfall is the story and some of the dialogue.

If I have to watch Homecoming + Far From Home back to back and then have to talk crap about Spiderman 2 or watch Ejen Ali and gave it score above 3, I choose the former

The Best Animation.

[mohamadraimiradin · 10/10 · 13 December 2019]

Ejen Ali the movie is one of the best Malaysian animation this year, after Upin & Ipin the movie and Boboiboy the movie 2. The plot is relevant related to real world, and the art of fighting with super high technology gadgets is awesome. 10/10.

Not bad for Malaysian Movie Standard.

[mazfar-79463 · 6/10 · 24 June 2020]

Although this film rip-off Big Hero 6, the quality is a lot better. The soundtrack a little clichè, CGI is very beautiful. This is not international level though, but still a family friendly film.

The best movie I ever watched!

[checkmate_nc · 10/10 · 2 December 2019]

If i have my final rm20 to survive this month, i will spend it all for this movie.

Enjoyable to everybody.

[tasekdamai · 10/10 · 3 December 2019]

U have to watch their series first. Good storyline even predictable ending. But the plot is full with actions and thrills. Never find local animations full of actions like this before.

All my thumbs up!!

Never expecting Malaysia's own animation to deliver.

[soryuuha · 10/10 · 2 December 2019]

Tv series season 1 was great, season 2 introduce much more keluarpattern deeper depth. the movie was mindblowing, considering this as Malaysia-made animation. Definitely looking forward for future release.

11/10 will watch again.

Best animation movie ever!

[mohdfazli_smk · 10/10 · 2 December 2019]

Ejen Ali The Movie could easily beat other box-office movies like Minions, Toy Story, etc....

Kita jaga kita!

[shahrizal76 · 10/10 · 3 December 2019]

Well done & kudos to all geniuses behind this primeworks/ wau animation for this brilliantly told kid-spy flick... Even my 10-year old daughter has been repeatedly asking me to watch this movie again... 2019 is indeed an excellent year for Malaysian animation industry... keep up the good job guys!!!

Just WOW

[syazanamohdnasir · 10/10 · 6 December 2019]

Wow. Just wow. Should bring this movie to international level

Too good for a kids movie

[amerflux · 10/10 · 3 December 2019]

I came with zero expectation without watching a single episode. I realized I enjoyed throughout the movie even though I don't really watch cartoons.

The movie is well-written and the villain is not one-dimensional. For a kids movie, it has a slightly mature-themed plot which touches on the current issues (e.g. greed and capitalism), at the same time having a lot of fun moments that kids can enjoy.

They really put a lot of effort into the strategic action sequences, tbh i felt like I was watching an anime hahaha seriously, there's a bright future for Malaysian animation industry if they keep on producing this kind of content. Worth every penny!

This movie can totally kick international movies'

[bellenomura · 10/10 · 21 December 2019]

I took my brother, my two kids (4 & 2yo), & my 67yo mom to watch this movie with barely any knowledge of what this movie's plot was going to be about.

Back in 2016, my brother & i watched the first season of Ejen Ali & we both LOVED IT. But as we got busy with our adult lives, we rarely watched TV and we weren't even aware of when season 2 started airing & when it was even completed due to the lack of promotion of the series.

We didn't even know Ejen Ali the Movie was in the making and all of a sudden last month we just happen to see the movie poster at the cinemas while i was taking my kids outing.

Remembering how we loved the TV series,my brother & I decided to go watch it with my kids despite not having watched the second season.

I was worried we might not be able to understand since we missed season 2, but BOIIIIIIII this movie was absolutely AMAZING even as a stand-alone film due to its new conflict & the introduction of a new antagonist that had barely anything to do with the first 2 seasons of the series.

The action scenes, scores, writing, cinematography, voice acting, graphics are INTERNATIONAL LEVEL despite the film's measly budget of RM6.5mil. One of the things I loved about the film is that they were able to showcase the unique Malaysian culture in a subtle/celebrated & not tokenized/forced way. The portrayal of it was done fantastically & not in a shove-it-in-your-face kind of writing, which is something I find alot of other Malaysian stories have struggled with.

Another thing i like about Ejen Ali is that unlike most local animation, the storywriting does not look down on its audience & is not afraid to tackle on complicated/sensitive/controversial subjects & issues, which makes it appealing even to teens & adults while still being enjoyable for kids.

The crews have outdone themselves and have set the bar really high for local movies now.

The only withdrawal from this is that I'm scared if other production team or even the same team will struggle to produce future films as good as this one. I feel like the standards has been raised so high that we might not get another movie as great as this.

But on the bright side, this movie will DEFINITELY set a record and make history as the best local animated film produced in this decade (or heck, maybe EVER) and would probably be an example for future local movies to come.

Concerning that out of all 3 big local animated films that had been released this year on the big screens (Upin Ipin, Boboiboy, & Ejen Ali), this one had the lowest budget out of all 3 of them (with RM6.5mil) but it absolutely did not lose to any of them. So in my opinion, it definitely deserves a full star rating. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

All the best to WAU Animation & Primeworks Studio for their upcoming works. I hope this movie won't just be a one hit wonder and is able to catapult the Ejen Ali franchise into stardom and that they are able to keep up the amazing work and standards that they have set for themselves.

I'm not sure if their upcoming season or movie will be able to top this one, but i will gladly support their works and spend money on them. They absolutely deserve it and more.

Ejen Ali has definitely become this nation's treasure & deserves recognition not just locally but also internationally.

AN EXCELLENT JOB WELL DONE.

TLDR; I am absolutely satisfied and glad we picked this movie to watch instead of some other international movies that was on cinemas at the same time (Frozen 2). TOTALLY WORTH MY LIMITED ADULT FREE TIME & MONEY.



UPDATE (3 December 2020): i just watched this movie with my brother yesterday on Netflix in english (bcoz english is Netflix's default language) and i gotta say Thank You because the movie's english dub is a HUGE improvement from the series' previous Netflix english dub. Also thank you for keeping Azman Zulkiply for the movie's english cast. He's a gem. Although i prefer Ida Rahayu's voice as Ali, Steven Bones did a pretty decent job as Ali's english VA albeit sounding a little deep & dorky. Anita Woo was awesome as Niki. I'm in love with her voice. Overall the english VA for the movie was pretty good & i'm lowkey hoping most of them will stay for the series future seasons. It's been a year and i will never shut up about how good this movie is. Lots of love.

THE BEST MALAYSIAN ANIMATION FILM SO FAR!

[aimanasril · 10/10 · 7 December 2019]

The best Malaysian animation film so far A fresh intro, unexpected villains, and fast-pace animation action movie. I think teenagers and adult may appreciate this movie better than under age kids. Worth the time and money spent.

Proof of hard works from a Malaysian animation studio!

[kikram-58307 · 10/10 · 8 December 2019]

My kids watched the movie with my sister in law on its premiere (1st day). I didn't watch it as I thought it is just for the kids. But they asked me to watch the movie again with them, so I complied. It is a school holiday anyway, and I wanted to be with them. I did not put any expectations.

But, I was so surprised the moment when I saw the first scene. It is a very well done, in term of its quality of graphics, effects and soundtrack. I am not good at reviewing movies, but this has made me say "wow!"

I watched the movie through out and didn't go to sleep. The storyline was good if not great. I think, it is the best Malaysian made animated movie so far.

I highly recommend this movie. This is the first time I write a review in iMDB is another testament of how good the movie is. Well done!

Best animation from Malaysia

[izi_izu · 10/10 · 11 December 2019]

This movie surpassed all animation movies from Malaysia this year or I would say on par with what Disney can offer. Maybe a little bit fast on the pacing but needless to say this movie is awesome with limited resource of budget and team behind it, Wau Animation surely did their best to make sure this turn out to be the greatest animation movie from Malaysia

Best Malaysian movie so far

[muhammadizzatamir · 10/10 · 1 December 2019]

Story line is outstanding even never watch the animated series before, have bit of non-moralist perspection,

Even better than Big Hero 6!

[valkrain1234 · 10/10 · 1 January 2020]

This movie has an amazing music score that manages to capture the motive of the superhero, his struggles in growing as an agent, his emotional drive that pushes him to improve and overcome challanges.

The movie contain some comic relief comedies that represents the Malaysian community as a whole while still manage to explain the plot in a most dynamic way.

Action-packed that puts me at the edge of my seat throughout the whole movie. The way this movie plays with your emotion is beyond animation movie and sets a higher bar to any animations.