Adapting history: narrative strategies in the film adaptation Conquer: Lahad Datu (2024)

Conquer: Lahad Datu (Takluk: Lahad Datu) is a Malaysian film released in 2024, inspired by the real-life incursion that occurred in Kampung Tanduo, Lahad Datu, Sabah, on February 11, 2013 by Sulu militants, which led to the launch of Operasi Daulat by the Malaysian security forces. Within the local film landscape, cinematic adaptations based on historical events are still relatively rare. Most adaptations tend to focus on popular novels, making this film a notable exception. This study aims to explore the storyline presented in the film and examine the key elements highlighted in the adaptation. Using Linda Hutcheon’s adaptation theory as the framework, this study investigates how historical events are transformed into film narrative. The study adopts content analysis as its methodology, focusing on how the film interprets and presents specific events and themes. The analysis reveals that Conquer: Lahad Datu stays true to real events. At the same time, the film incorporates powerful thematic elements such as patriotism, national loyalty and unwavering resilience, which enrich the film’s narrative and create emotional impact. The movie portrays the harsh realities of armed conflict with great care and attention to detail, but it also adds dramatic touches to make the story more engaging. It skilfully combines intense war-action scenes with deeper messages about courage and determination in protecting Malaysia’s sovereignty. Ultimately, this study sheds light on how patriotic values can shine through in historical films and highlights the exciting potential for more Malaysian stories rooted in history to hit the big screen.

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