Insan

The same year Shaw’s Malay Film Productions released P. Ramlee’s Penarek Becha, they also produced this melodrama centred around another humble trishaw driver. Like Ramlee’s film it was co-written by young literary upstart Jamil Sulong (who later became a director). Similar issues around class, wealth and modernity are explored through the tale of a kindly older trishaw driver (Omar Rojik) who adopts Jamilah, an orphan and marries her guardian, offering her a simple but better life (including a very, very long visit the circus). As the years pass Jamilah pulls away from her impoverished kampong life towards a world of motor cars and monied families, while kind Omar’s health is failing. A classic slice of social-realist melodrama.

Directed by K. M. Basker, Insan leans on a strong ensemble — Saadiah, Siput Sarawak, Omar Rojik — 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 drama titles of 1955.