Watch The Last Communist

The Last Communist is a Malaysian drama film released in 2006. Directed by Amir Muhammad, the film is a tribute to and a portrait of the life and work of a controversial Malaysian politician, Chin Peng, who was the leader of the Communist Party of Malaya. Set in the present day, the film takes the form of a road trip and follows the fictional character of a documentary filmmaker, Fahmi, who embarks on a journey to document the life of Chin Peng. Together with his friend, Zaki, and a young woman, Ana, they start the journey from Kuala Lumpur and head towards southern Thailand, tracing the footsteps of Chin Peng's life from his birthplace in Sitiawan, Perak, to his final years in exile in Bangkok.

The story is told through the eyes of Fahmi, a self-proclaimed communist sympathizer, who openly admires Chin Peng and his ideals. Through his journey, Fahmi encounters different perspectives on Chin Peng's life, from those who see him as a patriot and a revolutionary hero to others who consider him a guerrilla fighter and a terrorist.

The film uses a mix of documentary and narrative techniques, blending real-life interviews with archival footage and re-enactments to re-tell the history of the Communist Party of Malaya, the Malayan Emergency, and Chin Peng's role in it all. The film also features a number of fictional elements, such as the story of Fahmi and Ana's relationship, which adds a personal touch to the film's overall narrative.

One of the most notable aspects of The Last Communist is its treatment of Chin Peng's legacy. Despite his controversial past, the film manages to humanize him and presents him as a complex figure who fought for the independence of his country in the face of brutal colonialism. Through interviews with people who knew him personally or were involved in political movements during his time, viewers get a glimpse into the man behind the myth of the last communist.

The film's cinematography and visual style are also noteworthy. The film is shot on digital video and features a mix of handheld camera shots and static tripod shots that lend a naturalistic tone to the film. The film also uses music and sound design to great effect, with a mix of traditional Malaysian music, communist anthems, and contemporary pop music to set the mood.

Overall, The Last Communist is a thought-provoking film that sheds light on a controversial period of Malaysian history and offers a fresh take on a man who was once reviled by many. The film is not without its flaws, however. Its slow pacing and occasional lack of focus may test some viewers' patience, but those who are willing to stick with it will be rewarded with a rich and nuanced exploration of history, politics, and humanity.