DIRECTOR: Jeremias Nyangoen
STARRING: Merlinda Dessy Adoe, Irma Novita Rihi, Sallum Ratu Ke
RUNNING TIME: 2 hrs 23 minutes
LANGUAGE: Indonesian
Nine days after his death, Abraham has not been buried, in order to fulfill Abraham's last message: "There's no funeral before Martha returns." The return of Martha from Sabah, Malaysia is of course a special joy for the family, especially Orpha, her mother, and Bertha, her sister. However, after two years abroad, Martha is severely depressed due to the rape she experienced while working as a labourer on a palm oil plantation.
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Women From Rote Island is written and directed by Jeremias Nyangoen in his feature directorial debut. The film had its world premiere at the 28th Busan International Film Festival on October 7, 2023. It also received four awards at the 2023 Indonesian Film Festival including Best Picture and Best Director. The film was released in theatres across Indonesia and Malaysia at the beginning of 2024, and has since screened at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
The Indonesian Oscar Selection Committee, chaired by actor Deddy Mizwar, revealed that they had selected around 16 film titles. The decision was taken after watching the films and following up with in-depth discussions. The decision to pick Women From Rote Island was made on Tuesday, September 17th.
The film is produced by Bintang Cahaya Sinema and Langit Terang Sinema.
Women From Rote Island is a thriller drama and it was filmed in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
To check out all previous submissions for Indonesia, click HERE.
STARRING: Merlinda Dessy Adoe, Irma Novita Rihi, Sallum Ratu Ke
RUNNING TIME: 2 hrs 23 minutes
LANGUAGE: Indonesian
Nine days after his death, Abraham has not been buried, in order to fulfill Abraham's last message: "There's no funeral before Martha returns." The return of Martha from Sabah, Malaysia is of course a special joy for the family, especially Orpha, her mother, and Bertha, her sister. However, after two years abroad, Martha is severely depressed due to the rape she experienced while working as a labourer on a palm oil plantation.
***
Women From Rote Island is written and directed by Jeremias Nyangoen in his feature directorial debut. The film had its world premiere at the 28th Busan International Film Festival on October 7, 2023. It also received four awards at the 2023 Indonesian Film Festival including Best Picture and Best Director. The film was released in theatres across Indonesia and Malaysia at the beginning of 2024, and has since screened at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2024.
The Indonesian Oscar Selection Committee, chaired by actor Deddy Mizwar, revealed that they had selected around 16 film titles. The decision was taken after watching the films and following up with in-depth discussions. The decision to pick Women From Rote Island was made on Tuesday, September 17th.
The film is produced by Bintang Cahaya Sinema and Langit Terang Sinema.
Women From Rote Island is a thriller drama and it was filmed in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
To check out all previous submissions for Indonesia, click HERE.
FILM REVIEW:
(This review contains spoilers.)
"If a mother can carry and give birth to a child, it means she's capable of doing anything for her child."
Jeremias Nyangoen’s Women from Rote Island is a poignant and powerful debut that not only showcases the resilience of women but also brings the beauty and struggles of Indonesia’s Rote Island to a global stage. This film masterfully blends heartfelt drama with social commentary, offering an emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression. Nyangoen’s ability to delve into deeply personal themes while capturing the unique cultural essence of Rote Island is nothing short of remarkable.
At the heart of the film is Martha’s journey of healing after returning home from her harrowing experiences as an illegal migrant worker. Merlinda Adoe delivers a standout performance, portraying Martha with depth and vulnerability that tugs at the audience’s heartstrings. Equally compelling is Irma Rihi as Orpa, the matriarch whose quiet strength becomes the backbone of the family. Their on-screen chemistry anchors the film, and their relationship highlights the unyielding bonds of family amidst adversity.
The film’s cinematography is a visual feast, immersing viewers in the idyllic yet challenging landscapes of Rote Island. The vivid depiction of palm sugar production not only enriches the story’s authenticity but also serves as a metaphor for the hard work and perseverance of the island’s women. Nyangoen’s decision to cast local actors adds to this authenticity, bringing the region’s dialect and cultural nuances to life in a way that feels organic and respectful.
The narrative’s focus on themes of resilience, healing, and empowerment resonates universally, but it also sheds light on the pressing issue of sexual violence and its societal ramifications in Indonesia. Rather than succumbing to despair, the film is a celebration of courage and the collective strength of women to reclaim their lives. The sensitive yet unflinching portrayal of these issues is a testament to Nyangoen’s directorial finesse and empathy.
Women from Rote Island is not just a film; it is a cultural milestone that sets a new standard for Indonesian cinema. Winning multiple awards at the Indonesian Film Festival and being chosen as the country’s submission for the Oscars underscores its significance. Nyangoen’s debut is a deeply moving and beautifully crafted film that deserves to be seen by audiences worldwide.
(This review contains spoilers.)
"If a mother can carry and give birth to a child, it means she's capable of doing anything for her child."
Jeremias Nyangoen’s Women from Rote Island is a poignant and powerful debut that not only showcases the resilience of women but also brings the beauty and struggles of Indonesia’s Rote Island to a global stage. This film masterfully blends heartfelt drama with social commentary, offering an emotional journey that leaves a lasting impression. Nyangoen’s ability to delve into deeply personal themes while capturing the unique cultural essence of Rote Island is nothing short of remarkable.
At the heart of the film is Martha’s journey of healing after returning home from her harrowing experiences as an illegal migrant worker. Merlinda Adoe delivers a standout performance, portraying Martha with depth and vulnerability that tugs at the audience’s heartstrings. Equally compelling is Irma Rihi as Orpa, the matriarch whose quiet strength becomes the backbone of the family. Their on-screen chemistry anchors the film, and their relationship highlights the unyielding bonds of family amidst adversity.
The film’s cinematography is a visual feast, immersing viewers in the idyllic yet challenging landscapes of Rote Island. The vivid depiction of palm sugar production not only enriches the story’s authenticity but also serves as a metaphor for the hard work and perseverance of the island’s women. Nyangoen’s decision to cast local actors adds to this authenticity, bringing the region’s dialect and cultural nuances to life in a way that feels organic and respectful.
The narrative’s focus on themes of resilience, healing, and empowerment resonates universally, but it also sheds light on the pressing issue of sexual violence and its societal ramifications in Indonesia. Rather than succumbing to despair, the film is a celebration of courage and the collective strength of women to reclaim their lives. The sensitive yet unflinching portrayal of these issues is a testament to Nyangoen’s directorial finesse and empathy.
Women from Rote Island is not just a film; it is a cultural milestone that sets a new standard for Indonesian cinema. Winning multiple awards at the Indonesian Film Festival and being chosen as the country’s submission for the Oscars underscores its significance. Nyangoen’s debut is a deeply moving and beautifully crafted film that deserves to be seen by audiences worldwide.
