Indonesian films from time to time are getting better and more interesting. However not all films have a good storyline. So, Here the films that have a good storyline and absolutely everyone should watch (if you’ve seen one of them, this is worth to watch again and again).
1. The Rainbow Troops (Laskar Pelangi)
Laskar Pelangi is an adaptation of a best-selling novel written by Andrea Hirata and directed by Riri Riza. This movie tells about the struggles of Ikal and his friends (a group nicknamed the Rainbow Troops) in their fight for education. Definitely a must watch because there are so many life lessons that can be learned from this movie.
2. Habibie & Ainun
This film narrates the love story of Indonesian third President, B.J. Habibie and his wife Hasri Ainun Besari. Played perfectly by Reza Rahadian and Bunga Citra Lestari, this movie tells about chasing dreams and goals and the ups and downs of Habibie & Ainun during their relationship.
3. Marlina and The Murderer in Four Acts (Marlina si Pembunuh dalam Empat Babak)
Written by Surya and Rama Adi, and based on a story by Garin Nugroho, Marlina the Murderer is a revenge fantasy rooted in Indonesia’s gender conditions, complex regional culture and the stark beauty of its landscapes. Following a widow on an empowering course to seek justice for robbery and rape. It combines the idea of feminism that comes from a Western culture with the Indonesian culture.
4. Gie
Played by Nicholas Saputra, Gie is a indonesian biopic film directed by Riri Riza. Based on a diary Catatan Seorang Demonstran (written by Soe himself), The film tells about Gie, who is known as an activist and nature lover. The movie does not reveal merely the political aspect of his life, but also poetry, love, and his passionate dedication to a self-examined life.
5. 5cm
Based on the novel 5cm by Donny Dhirgantoro, this movie tells about five best friends who celebrate their friendship anniversary by climbing Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java. They’ve been friends for a long time and have grown up together, yet have been apart from each other as they reached adult life. This movie is more than just about adventure, it’s about friendship. Lets be honest, who doesn’t love a heartwarming story of a group of friends exploring life together?
6. Satan’s Slaves (Pengabdi Setan)
Satan’s Slaves is a Indonesian horror film written and directed by Joko Anwar. Supernatural accident began to happen when Rini and her family moved out of the city with the Mother’s strange illnes condition and soon passed away. The plot is not new but the way it’s executed makes it look fresh.
7. Impetigore (Perempuan Tanah Jahanam)
Impetigore or Perempuan Tanah Jahanam is a another horror film written and directed by Joko Anwar. Following Maya (Tara Basro) with her best friend, Dini (Marissa Anita), tries to survive in a city without a family. She realized that she might inherit a property from her rich family. Maya returns to the village with Dini, unaware of the danger that is waiting for her. Impetigore hits all the right notes in giving horror fans the familiar scares that we are all so addicted to.
8. What’s Up with Love? (Ada Apa Dengan Cinta?)
Starring Dian Sastrowardoyo and Nicholas Saputra, This movie not only one of the most popular Indonesian movies, but also has a memorable soundtrack. Tells about a puppy love, friendship, and the complex lives of teenagers. Its sequel was released more than a decade, with the same characters but in a more mature setting and storyline.
If you have any other movies that you considered one of the best, please share with me by commenting down below!
