19th Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival: A Celebration of Asian Cinema Amid Global Challenges
Despite the persistent rain, the 19th edition of the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) drew thousands of film enthusiasts to Empire XXI Jogja over the weekend. The JAFF, which is Indonesia’s longest-running international film festival, saw a convergence of prominent figures in the Indonesian film industry.
Directors Yandy Laurens, Sidharta Tata, Tumpal Tampubolon, and Timo Tjahjanto, were in attendance alongside actors including Dian Sastrowardoyo, Sheila Dara, Hannah Al Rashid, and Eva Celia.
Harnessing the theme “Metanoia,” the festival is focusing on the transformation of Asian cinema in the face of global challenges. Garin Nugroho, the founder of JAFF and a renowned filmmaker, addressed the audience, emphasizing the crucial role of community support. He stated, “Trust, collaboration, and togetherness are the bedrock of a thriving film ecosystem, not just in Indonesia or Asia, but across the globe.”
The Minister of Culture of Indonesia, Dr. Fadli Zon, used the platform to celebrate the global achievements of Indonesian filmmakers and pledged his support for the industry’s growth, particularly in international distribution. He encouraged collaborative efforts to reinforce the film ecosystem’s role in driving cultural representation and societal change. “We will also strive to support the global distribution of these works,” he stated. “I call upon everyone to work in unison to fortify the film ecosystem as a conduit for conveying universal messages, introducing Indonesian culture, and stimulating future generations as an agent of change.”
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The opening ceremony of the festival was graced by a performance from the local band Lomba Sihir. The festival also presented honorary awards to producer Hendrick Gozali, the late Aruna Vasudev, founder of Netpac, and Kim Dong-ho, founder of the Busan International Film Festival.
The silent, black-and-white film “Samsara” by Nugroho, which bagged four awards at Film Festival Indonesia 2024, was the opening feature of the festival.
The 19th JAFF, scheduled to run until Dec. 7, will screen 182 films from 25 Asia-Pacific countries. The first-ever JAFF Market is set to commence on Dec. 3.
FAQs
What is the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF)?
The Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival is Indonesia’s longest-running international film festival that showcases films from Asia-Pacific countries.
Who are some notable figures that attended the 19th JAFF?
Directors Yandy Laurens, Sidharta Tata, Tumpal Tampubolon, and Timo Tjahjanto, and actors Dian Sastrowardoyo, Sheila Dara, Hannah Al Rashid, and Eva Celia were among the attendees.
What is the theme of the 19th JAFF?
The theme of the 19th JAFF is “Metanoia,” focusing on the transformation of Asian cinema amid global challenges.
Who is the founder of JAFF?
The JAFF was founded by filmmaker Garin Nugroho.
What was the opening feature of the 19th JAFF?
The silent, black-and-white film “Samsara” by Nugroho served as the opening feature of the festival.
Credit: variety.com
