Showcases Special Program in Focus:

‘Renaissance of Indonesian Cinema’!

Embracing Global Admiration: 
Mouly SURYA and Kamila ANDINI, Renowned Female Directors
Joko ANWAR, the Grand Master of Horror
Lineup of 12 Indonesian Films with Remarkable Impact!

Indonesia has recently gained momentum in producing numerous captivating films. Since the 21st century, Indonesian cinema, particularly in the realm of independent films, has experienced a remarkable resurgence. These films have found their way to prestigious film festivals, earning acclaim through notable awards. Today, the domestic market in Indonesia—with its fourth-largest population—is undergoing expansion due to the rise in screen numbers, especially in multiplexes, with local productions having captured the majority of the market share. Furthermore, as one of the countries with its film industry that made the fastest recovery from the pandemic, Indonesia is bolstering its cultural policies to nurture the film industry's growth and foster emerging Indonesian filmmakers.

Focusing on Indonesia’s fast-growing film industry, the Special Program in Focus will introduce 7 features and 5 short films, including series which will be presented on Netflix. Mouly Surya and Kamila Andini, two of the most prominent female directors in Asia; Joko Anwar, hailed as a preeminent master of the horror genre; along with Edwin and Yosep Anggi Noen, who have received acclaim at world-renowned film festivals, are once again returning to Busan in October. The spotlight will also be cast upon budding filmmakers who have recently started to capture attention.

 

Selections Full of Characters with Compelling Personalities
Celebrated Indonesian Filmmakers and Actors Visit BIFF 2023!

The selection also includes Sara (2022) by Ismail Basbeth, which navigates the conflicts faced by a transgender woman within her family and community, and What They Don't Talk About When They Talk About Love (2012) by Mouly Surya, exploring the friendship and personal development of two blind girls. Impetigore (2019) by Joko Anwar, heralded by aficionados of horror cinema as one of the scariest films of its release year, also finds its place within the selection. Beyond these works, 5 short films by talented directors embarking on their first feature film projects will be introduced.

 

 

‘Renaissance of Indonesian Cinema’, a Special Program in Focus featuring captivating characters in a variety of genres, has secured significant backing from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology of Indonesia, resulting in a substantial expansion of its guest invitations. Directors and actors from each featured film are scheduled to visit Busan, taking part in a multitude of events, including Guest Visits (GV), where they will enthusiastically share their profound experiences with the audience.

 

The 28th Busan International Film Festival, which has unveiled its Special Program in Focus, will be held for 10 days from Oct 4 (Wed) to Oct 13 (Fri) in the vicinity of the Busan Cinema Center.

[‘Renaissance of Indonesian Cinema’ Selections]

*Titles in alphabetical order