Murdered (2008 Video) User Reviews

Good Job Mr Ashraf

[pete-willis · 5/10 · 16 November 2008]

It was so refreshing to see a film with an Asian leading man that was as far away from Bollywood as you can get. Having seen the DVD of 'Murdered' by Jemsahaid Ashraf, I was greatly impressed by the energy and commitment of this new film-maker from Manchester who has had to write, produce, direct and star in this film.

Despite his lack of budget, Ashraf has managed to create a thriller that resonates with ambiance, is competently acted and is cinematically gratifying. Ashraf is a brave man to stand up and be counted as a real contender within the bigoted British film industry. Watch out for him, I think he has something to say.

Different and enjoyable

[laurahaywood · 7/10 · 8 March 2009]

I saw this film not knowing what to expect. I've seen low budget films before and been disappointed. But this was different. Despite obvious budget constraints this film is stylistically ambitious with an experimental look that is a combination of film noir and modernism. There are also some solid performances and a good story, albeit one which doesn't follow a traditional narrative structure.

Because the film is so unconventional it certainly won't be everyone's cup of tea. But, if like me, you like to see something different (even if only every once in a while), then this is definitely one to check out.

pushing the boundaries

[kelly43-2 · 6/10 · 25 November 2008]

'Murdered' tells the story of a private detective taking on a seemingly routine job only to get caught up in a web of intrigue when his client is mysteriously murdered in the middle of his investigation. Like all good detective stories 'Murdered' keeps you guessing to the end and even then leaves you in a tangle of emotions.

Jemshaid Ashraf who has written and directed the film also stars as the determined detective and this is where Ashraf is pushing the boundaries in British film-making. How many other detective stories can you name that has an Asian male lead? 'Murdered' is well constructed with a believable plot and characters and even gives a respectful nod towards Hitchcock's 'Psycho'. Ashraf's work deserves an audience and with the right backing will be a name to look out for.

Okay but a little slow for me

[sanderson-george575 · 4/10 · 18 March 2009]

I have to confess I bought this movie mainly because of the cool artwork on the DVD. In the beginning it really grabbed my attention because it is weird and offbeat and I was intrigued by the way that Riz, the main character, is implicated in a murder through no fault of his own.

Despite being a private detective, Riz is just your average guy who some bad things happen to. For me, this is the main problem with the movie. Riz never really tries to take control of the situation and as a result the main character doesn't really drive the story, which means the movie feels a little slow, despite the fact that the running time is relatively short. Don't get me wrong this certainly isn't a bad movie and it has its moments but I would have liked see a bit more action and a faster pace to the story.