ABIMANA UMBAR KELAKUAN TOXIC INDUSTRI FILM INDONESIA - MARI KEMARI

Encountering Family After 38 Years

Reflections on Family and Film

• The speaker discusses the emotional impact of not meeting their father until the age of 38, highlighting a deep sense of loss and longing.

• They draw parallels between personal experiences and themes in Indonesian films, particularly focusing on greed as a recurring motif in contemporary narratives.

Challenges in Filmmaking

• The conversation shifts to the difficulties faced during film shoots, especially when working alongside family members, indicating a complex dynamic.

• Humor is introduced with references to feeling sleepy and comparing oneself to a wolf, showcasing light-hearted banter amidst serious topics.

Character Development in Films

Role Assignments and Plot Elements

• Discussion about character roles within a film where revenge is a central theme; the speaker mentions playing an important supporting role.

• Clarification on character relationships, specifically mentioning connections to notable figures like Jarot from Jakarta's political scene.

Insights into Directorial Choices

• The speaker reflects on past collaborations with directors who have made significant contributions to their projects, emphasizing teamwork in creative processes.

Podcast Dynamics and Guest Interactions

Coffee Break Conversations

• A casual moment discussing coffee preferences while preparing for the podcast recording, illustrating camaraderie among participants.

Podcast Production Insights

• Concerns are raised about maintaining authenticity during recordings without editing out mistakes or awkward moments, promoting genuine interactions.

Experiences with Other Guests

Anecdotes About Reza's Visit

• A humorous recounting of another guest's fear of ghosts leading to unexpected reactions during filming sessions.

Networking Within the Industry

• Mention of industry connections and how they influence participation in podcasts; highlights the importance of communication among peers.

Scheduling Conflicts and Future Plans

Coordination Challenges

• Discussion about scheduling conflicts for future podcast episodes due to busy schedules and prior commitments among guests.

Community Connections

• Reflection on neighborhood ties that complicate social interactions; emphasizes familiarity yet challenges posed by personal circumstances.

Exploring Ancestry and Family History

Personal Ancestry Discovery

• The speaker shares their background, stating they were born in Jakarta and recently took a DNA test that revealed surprising ancestry results.

• The DNA test indicated 40% Mongolian heritage, 28% Middle Eastern (specifically Iranian), and only 10% Indonesian roots, raising questions about the accuracy of these findings.

Cultural Heritage Insights

• The speaker discusses their Basque heritage from their paternal grandfather, who hailed from Galicia near Italy, emphasizing the historical context of the Basque people before Spanish influence.

• They mention their maternal lineage includes Chinese ancestry, highlighting the diverse ethnic mix within their family history.

Family Background and Relationships

• The speaker reflects on how historical events have shaped familial connections, particularly referencing military actions in Iran that may have influenced personal histories.

• A romantic backstory is shared about how the speaker's parents met at a sports event called "highlight," which was popularized during Ali Sadikin's era in Jakarta.

Life Events and Personal Reflections

• The narrative shifts to discuss the nature of relationships; while it seems romantic for some, the speaker expresses a more complex view regarding his parents' relationship dynamics.

• They describe an athletic background related to highlight sports but clarify misconceptions about its nature compared to other games like squash.

Reunion with Father

• The speaker recounts meeting their father for the first time at age 38 after being raised without him due to separation during pregnancy.

• This reunion was marked by emotional complexity as they navigated unfamiliarity despite genetic similarities noted by both parties.

Searching for Family Connections

• After years apart, they reflect on how social media played a role in reconnecting with family members.

• Their daughter’s curiosity about her grandfather prompted efforts to trace family roots through various means including official channels and social media platforms like Facebook.

Reconnecting with Family: A Journey of Discovery

Initial Thoughts on Family Reunion

• The speaker reflects on a conversation about searching for their grandfather, expressing initial reluctance and feelings of anger towards the idea of meeting him.

• They mention using Facebook to locate their grandfather, emphasizing that they are not seeking financial assistance, which is a common concern among foreigners.

Communication Challenges

• The speaker describes sending an email introducing themselves and sharing family photos, including one with their mother.

• They note that the response came from the grandfather's sibling due to language barriers; the grandfather does not speak English well.

Planning the Visit

• After receiving a reply, plans were made to visit the grandfather in Spain. The journey involved traveling from Bilbao to another city.

• During this time, the speaker shares stories with their father about his past experiences in Jakarta and how he was brought to Asia at a young age.

Personal Reflections on Heritage

• The speaker recounts their father's pride in being featured in a calendar as a model for a fabric store, highlighting cultural significance.

• They discuss how humble beginnings can lead to significant achievements and reflect on their family's lack of artistic professions.

Discovering Extended Family

• The narrative reveals that after reconnecting with family members, many relatives expressed interest in learning more about them.

• Questions arise regarding whether the grandfather knew about his child in Indonesia and if other family members were aware of this connection.

Cultural Identity and Background

• There is speculation about whether the grandfather was aware of having children abroad during his time back in Spain.

• The speaker discusses familial dynamics and childhood experiences living away from their mother due to various circumstances.

Nostalgia for Childhood Home

• Memories surface regarding being raised by different families while often being separated from their biological mother.

• They reminisce about Glodok, Jakarta's Chinese food scene linked to their grandmother’s restaurant business before it ceased operations after her passing.

Reflection on Cultural Identity

• The speaker expresses feelings of disconnection from both Indonesian culture and Western identity due to mixed heritage.

Life Experiences and Identity in Betawi Culture

Childhood and Upbringing

• The speaker reflects on their childhood in the Betawi region, mentioning a mix of cultural influences, including Chinese and local Betawi identities.

• They describe a transient upbringing, moving frequently between different neighborhoods like Glodok and Bandung, often staying with various families.

• The speaker shares that they dropped out of school around grades 4 or 5, leading to a life on the streets where they sometimes slept in mosques or friends' homes.

Life on the Streets

• Their experiences included living in precarious conditions, often feeling unsafe but also forming bonds with other street children.

• The speaker recalls fears associated with certain areas dominated by gangs or criminal activity during their youth.

Identity Formation

• The speaker discusses their nickname "Bang Abi," which is not their real name; it was derived from misinterpretation of their actual name "Robertino."

• They explain how names can carry cultural significance and reflect personal history, noting the confusion surrounding their name's origin.

Cultural Exploration

• The narrative shifts to experiences in Germany, highlighting encounters with diverse cultures while navigating through challenging environments.

• The speaker describes interactions with locals who mistook them for someone else based on appearance and language barriers.

Artistic Journey

• They recount how street life led them into music and performance art as forms of expression amidst hardship.

• Collaborations with fellow musicians are mentioned, emphasizing community ties formed through shared artistic endeavors.

Introduction to Early Experiences in Film

First Encounter with Acting

• The speaker recalls being invited by Rama Arab and friends to shoot a television series, highlighting the early days of Indonesian soap operas before the 1990s.

• The speaker shares a poignant moment about entering the frame for the first time at age 15, coinciding with Rian Hidayat's passing, marking a significant personal tragedy.

Initial Roles and Responsibilities

• The director Putu Wijaya was involved during this period; the speaker reflects on their height advantage over others while taking on roles in productions.

• A humorous note is made about an unpaid honorarium of IDR 35,000 from Star Vision for their first film role, emphasizing financial struggles faced by newcomers in the industry.

Behind-the-Scenes Experience

• The speaker describes their initial experience as part of the crew rather than in front of the camera, indicating a learning phase where they assisted with various tasks like setting up equipment.

• They recount how young crew members were often tasked with errands for older staff, illustrating a hierarchical dynamic within film production.

Transitioning into Professional Work

Gaining Industry Experience

• The speaker mentions transitioning from being an extra to gaining more substantial roles through connections made at IKJ (Jakarta Institute of Arts).

• An internship opportunity arose at Indosiar, where they learned from Taiwanese professionals about broadcasting standards and practices.

Cultural Challenges and Learning Curve

• Language barriers posed challenges during training sessions with Taiwanese instructors who spoke Mandarin, leading to misunderstandings but also valuable experiences.

• The speaker notes that despite difficulties in communication, they gained insights into lighting and camera work essential for broadcast quality.

Reflections on Industry Dynamics

Evolution of Drama Production

• As Indosiar began producing dramas outside traditional news formats, unique talents emerged from various backgrounds contributing to this new wave of storytelling.

• Notable figures included individuals from ITB (Bandung Institute of Technology), showcasing diverse influences shaping Indonesian cinema during this era.

Personal Observations on Film Culture

• The speaker expresses surprise at some aspects of film culture encountered while working in different sectors prior to joining the film industry.

• They reflect on their varied job experiences across multiple fields before settling into filmmaking, noting both similarities and differences between these environments.

Discussion on Bullying and Sensitivity in the Workplace

The Nature of Bullying

• The speaker discusses the prevalence of bullying, noting that some individuals may not intend to discredit others but engage in hurtful behavior nonetheless.

• Acknowledges that there are many who do not appreciate being bullied, emphasizing a need for honesty in discussions about such experiences.

Changing Sensitivities Over Time

• Highlights how sensitivity levels have changed over generations, particularly between those born in the 1990s and earlier eras, where resilience to insults was more common.

• Reflects on how titles and positions (like "chief") influence respect and recognition within professional settings.

Personal Experiences with Bullying

• Shares personal anecdotes about feeling disrespected during filming, illustrating how public humiliation can affect one's emotional state.

• Discusses the difference in mood among crew members after a project is completed compared to during production, indicating varying levels of stress and respect.

Respecting All Individuals

• Emphasizes treating everyone with respect regardless of their position or age, advocating for kindness towards younger colleagues as they navigate their careers.

• Mentions a friend from film crew work who has faced challenges but remains resilient despite difficult circumstances.

Solidarity Among Colleagues

• Describes camaraderie among peers from similar backgrounds, highlighting shared experiences that foster strong bonds within the workplace.

• Talks about maintaining patience and perseverance amidst challenging work conditions while recognizing the importance of halal (permissible/ethical) work environments.

Navigating Conflict Situations

• Addresses instances where disrespectful behavior occurs on set, stressing the need for awareness regarding how one treats others.

• Recalls an incident involving provocation leading to conflict escalation; emphasizes communication as key to resolving disputes effectively.

Community Support During Crises

• Discusses collective responses to emergencies or conflicts within groups, showcasing solidarity among team members when facing external threats or challenges.

• Illustrates how group dynamics can shift during stressful situations; highlights the importance of addressing issues calmly rather than escalating tensions unnecessarily.

This structured summary captures key themes from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

The Journey of Bang Talib: From Struggles to Stardom

Early Challenges and Resilience

• Bang Talib's rise to popularity is attributed to his patience and resilience, highlighting the cultural differences in how people from Eastern backgrounds handle criticism.

• In the early years, he faced harsh criticisms but chose to endure them, emphasizing the importance of perseverance in the entertainment industry.

Breakthrough Moments

• His first significant role was in a film called "Inframe," marking his entry into acting after starting as part of a crew for a television series.

• He recalls receiving a large poster for a soap opera he starred in, showcasing his initial recognition within the industry.

Learning and Growth as an Actor

• During his early career, he learned about acting through practical experience rather than formal training, which included improvisation and storytelling techniques.

• His debut involved playing a character named Nuno; he describes feeling nervous on set but gradually adapting to the demands of acting.

Creative Process and Collaboration

• The filming process often lacked scripted dialogue, requiring actors to convey emotions through their actions and interactions with others.

• He emphasizes that acting involves more than just delivering lines; it requires understanding motivations behind characters' actions.

Industry Insights and Personal Reflections

• At 17 years old, he began working behind the scenes while also participating in various projects, illustrating early involvement in creative works.

• Despite challenges during filming, including financial pressures, he found motivation through support from producers who encouraged him not to quit.

Film Industry Insights and Personal Journey

Early Experiences in Filmmaking

• Discussion about the filming process at Parkir Timur, highlighting the long duration of shoots and the transition to Prima Entertainment.

• Introduction of a new concept for Indonesian films, emphasizing that FTV (film televisi) productions were treated with seriousness akin to full-length films.

• Mention of key figures in the industry such as Yudi Datau and Agung, indicating their influence on future generations of filmmakers.

Transitioning from FTV to Film

• Reference to various projects like "Bintang Jatuh" and "Padangan Cinta," showcasing how these works contributed to rising enthusiasm for film production.

• Acknowledgment of influential personalities in the industry, including almarhum Danu Umbar, who played a significant role in shaping serious FTV content.

Personal Life Changes

• The speaker shares a pivotal moment at age 18 when they decided to marry and step back from acting, leading them into entrepreneurship with a burger stall in Semarang.

• Reflection on feelings of emptiness during youth and comparisons with other artists experiencing similar crises.

Rediscovering Passion for Film

• The speaker discusses falling back in love with filmmaking after moving to Semarang, illustrating how personal relationships can reignite professional passions.

• Recounting how Joko Anwar reached out multiple times, encouraging a return to Jakarta for film opportunities.

Casting and Name Change

• Details about casting experiences for "Catatan Harian Si Boy," including discussions around character selection and personal branding within the industry.

• The decision-making process behind changing their name professionally, involving family input which reflects cultural values regarding identity.

Reflections on Career Progression

• Clarification on timelines related to film releases like "Catatan Si Boy" versus other projects, providing context for career milestones.

• Insight into early influences from gaming culture on their creative journey; discussing past experiences with online gaming as part of their narrative.

This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while linking directly to specific timestamps for easy reference.

Film Industry Insights and Personal Experiences

Transition to Serious Filmmaking

• The speaker discusses a shift towards more serious themes in filmmaking, contrasting it with previous comedic approaches. They mention the evolution of characters and roles within this context.

Early Film Collaborations

• The speaker reflects on their early collaborations in horror films, mentioning working with Nayato and others. They highlight the low-budget nature of these initial projects compared to later works.

Editing and Production Challenges

• The speaker shares personal experiences with editing films, often using their child's name as a pseudonym. They describe the challenges faced while working alongside family members during production.

Industry Relationships and Opportunities

• Acknowledgment is given to industry figures like Joko Anwar and Timo Cahyanto for believing in the speaker's potential, which opened doors for future opportunities in filmmaking.

Changes in Film Trends

• Discussion on how film concepts have evolved from melodramatic narratives to more varied storytelling styles. The speaker notes that while some negative trends persist, there are also positive changes occurring within the industry.

Current State of Indonesian Cinema

• The speaker critiques current trends in Indonesian cinema, highlighting issues such as greed among producers leading to repetitive content that fails to engage audiences effectively.

Audience Perception and Market Saturation

• There is concern about audience fatigue due to an oversaturation of similar film posters and titles, indicating a lack of differentiation among new releases.

Creative Growth vs. Technical Advancement

• The conversation shifts towards the disparity between technical advancements in filmmaking tools versus creative growth. The speaker emphasizes that creativity should be at the forefront of film development rather than merely relying on technological updates.

Market Dynamics in Horror Films

• Analysis of market dynamics reveals that out of numerous horror films produced annually, only a few achieve box office success. This raises questions about investment viability within the genre amidst high competition.

This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference back to specific parts of the discussion.

Film Industry Insights in Indonesia

Overview of Film Genres and Investment

• Discussion on the probability of acceptance for different film genres, noting that drama films are statistically easier to get accepted than comedies.

• Mention of the top 10 highest-grossing Indonesian films in 2024, highlighting a mix of genres including drama, comedy, and horror.

• Breakdown of successful films: three horror films and several comedies among the top ten, indicating a trend in audience preferences.

• Insight into production costs; while horror films may have higher special effects costs, their overall investment is comparable to other genres.

• Questioning the validity of claims regarding audience numbers for horror films versus other genres.

The Role of Cultural Leadership

• Emphasis on the need for guidance from cultural leaders in Indonesia's film industry to improve organization and direction.

• Suggestion that figures like Rafi Ahmad could play a pivotal role in communicating concerns about Indonesian cinema to government officials.

Government Involvement and Funding

• Discussion on the separation between culture and education ministries, stressing that film can intersect with various sectors such as education and tourism.

• Critique of past government initiatives related to filmmaking, emphasizing a lack of coherent strategy or support from relevant ministries.

Future Prospects for Indonesian Cinema

• Hope expressed for better organization within the Indonesian film industry by 2025, with existing funding available but lacking public awareness.

• Introduction of programs aimed at nurturing storytelling talent across Indonesia through mentorship and direct project support.

Cultural Planning vs. Heritage Focus

• Call for a shift from merely preserving cultural heritage to actively planning future cultural developments within Indonesia’s film industry.

• Recognition that current actions will shape future cultural identity; comparison made with Korea's proactive approach to its cultural industries.

Conclusion on Industry Dynamics

• Reflection on how discussions around culture often focus too heavily on heritage rather than forward-looking strategies for growth and innovation in filmmaking.

• Acknowledgment that understanding today’s actions is crucial for determining future cultural landscapes.

This structured summary captures key insights from the transcript while providing timestamps for easy reference.

Insights on the Current State of Film Industry and Festivals

Changing Dynamics in Film Production

• The speaker agrees with a previous point about the current budgeting trends in film festivals, indicating a shift in market dynamics that may not align with audience expectations.

• There is a concern that filmmakers are increasingly relying on AI algorithms rather than engaging directly with audiences to determine what films to produce, leading to a disconnect from original storytelling.

• Digital platforms now dictate film production choices based on data analytics, prioritizing genres like action-comedy over unique cultural narratives or personal stories.

The Role of Film Festivals

• The speaker notes that while some films are being recognized at festivals for their quality, there remains uncertainty about their overall appeal and success.

• The Jaff festival is highlighted as an example of inclusivity and openness within the industry, showcasing diverse films from various countries including Indonesia and Iran.

Market Initiatives and Challenges

• The Jaff movie market has successfully opened new opportunities for filmmakers, demonstrating the potential for growth through collaborative initiatives.

• A past government program aimed at creating films around ten tourist destinations faced challenges due to lack of follow-through after initial funding.

Filmmaking Experiences

• Personal anecdotes illustrate the logistical difficulties faced during film shoots in remote locations, emphasizing the resourcefulness required by filmmakers.

• The speaker recounts humorous yet challenging experiences while filming underwater scenes without proper equipment or support.

Industry Collaboration and Future Directions

• There is a call for greater unity among artists within the industry to collectively steer filmmaking towards sustainable practices rather than individual profit motives.

• Concerns are raised about how financial pressures can lead to creative stagnation if filmmakers prioritize monetary gain over storytelling integrity.

• A reflection on past camaraderie among filmmakers when resources were scarce suggests that collaboration could be key to overcoming current challenges.

FFI and the Challenges of Film Workers

The Role of FFI and Leadership

• Discussion on the FFI (Film Federation of Indonesia) led by Ario, emphasizing the need for unified leadership to mobilize film workers effectively.

• Critique on seeking support from cultural ministers regarding work hours; suggests that requests should be directed towards production houses instead.

Issues with Actor Registration

• Highlights difficulties in registering actors with labor departments due to lack of technical standards defining their roles.

• Points out a historical separation between comedians and actors, indicating a desire for independence within creative fields.

Artistic Authenticity in Film

• Emphasizes the importance of showcasing authentic works in film, arguing against overly polished performances that may misrepresent reality.

• Discusses how films can provide both illusion and perspective, stressing the need for authenticity in storytelling.

Audience Expectations and Cultural Representation

• Observes that Indonesian audiences are accustomed to specific types of films; changing these expectations requires careful consideration.

• Suggests that future films should focus on training actors to authentically represent Eastern Indonesian culture.

Future Aspirations for Indonesian Cinema

• Expresses hope for more diverse storytelling in Indonesian cinema, allowing filmmakers from various backgrounds to share their unique perspectives.

• Acknowledges emerging filmmakers from Makassar who have gained international recognition, highlighting a new wave of independent cinema.

Funding Opportunities for Filmmakers in Indonesia

Exploring Local Funding Sources

• Discussion on the potential for local areas to replicate funding initiatives similar to Jakarta, emphasizing the importance of opening doors for filmmakers.

• Mention of "Dana Istimewa" in Yogyakarta, which provides annual funding opportunities and is managed by a government body, highlighting regional support for film projects.

• Reference to Singapore's film festival as a competitive platform where Indonesian filmmakers can submit proposals and presentations, promoting diversity in Indonesian cinema.

The Importance of Accessibility

• Emphasis on the need for online cinemas to be revitalized so that filmmakers from Eastern Indonesia can access budgets and resources necessary for filmmaking.

• Acknowledgment of limited cinema infrastructure in Papua, with only a few locations available, stressing the need for broader access across provinces.

Inspiration and Motivation

• Encouragement for aspiring filmmakers to draw inspiration from personal stories shared by established figures like Bang Abi, who faced challenges without privilege but persevered in their careers.