This film has a certain distiction of its own - it is the first to be written and directed by a Malay, Nas Achnas, a well known Singapore Malay artist. Starring Ismail Kassim and Nona Asiah, noted radio and record singer, the film is about a Malay who runs away from his kampong in order to avoid forcible marriage to his cousin. - The Straits Times, 8 Apr 1951

Directed by Naz Achnas, Pelangi leans on a strong ensemble — Ismail Kasim, Nona Asiah, Saloma — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1951.