Third Day JAFF 19 Highlights: From the Excitement of Inclusive Screening to Celebrating 25 Years of Dian Sastrowardoyo’s Career in the Film Industry

THE EXCITEMENT OF INCLUSIVE SCREENING HOME SWEET LOAN

This year’s inclusive screening at JAFF showcased Home Sweet Loan, directed by Sabrina Rochele Kalangie. The film features talented cast, including Yunita Siregar, Derby Romero, Risty Tagor, and Fita Anggriani. It tells the inspiring story of KALUNA (Yunita Siregar), a determined woman juggling her family’s needs while chasing her dream of owning a home in Jakarta.

The screening was designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that deaf, visually impaired, and physically disabled audiences could fully engage, thanks to the support of Teman Bisik volunteers. The audience’s excitement shone through, particularly during the lively Q&A session with the cast and crew.

JAFF continues to prioritize inclusivity, and these annual inclusive screenings reflect a strong commitment to this mission.

FINDING SOLACE IN THE PAST THROUGH FILM ALL WE NEED IS TIME

The film All We Need is Time (2024), directed by Teddy Soeriaatmadja and produced by Kathanika Films, Karuna Pictures, and Adhya Pictures, had its premiere yesterday. The cast features Lukman Sardi, Bima Azriel, Sha Ine Febriyanti, and Tissa Biani. The narrative centres around Ombak (Bima Azriel), a young man facing mental health challenges fueled by guilt and regret over a tragic accident that took his brother’s life. His mother (Sha Ine Febriyanti) holds him accountable, while his father (Lukman Sardi) attempts to unite the family amidst the turmoil. This touching film delves into mental health issues that resonate profoundly with today’s youth.

The premiere garnered a warm reception from the audience. During the Q&A session, cast member Lukman Sardi noted that the script and character development were meticulously crafted starting in 2022 and that filming wrapped up in 2024. He hoped the film would encourage open conversations about the importance of mental health awareness.

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF DIAN SASTROWARDOYO’S CAREER IN FILM INDUSTRY

One of the standout moments at JAFF 19 is a special program celebrating Dian Sastrowardoyo’s impressive 25-year journey in Indonesian film industry. This tribute features two engaging sessions: a showcase of short films directed by Dian and a re-screening of the iconic teen drama What’s With Love? (Ada Apa Dengan Cinta?), which propelled her into the spotlight.

The first session highlights three of Dian’s short films: Quarantine Tales – Nougat (2020), Kotak (2024), and Daybreak (2021). Each film offers a personal glimpse into Dian’s life. For instance, Quarantine Tales – Nougat delves into family dynamics, Kotak draws inspiration from a family hiking trip during the pandemic, and Daybreak is a heartfelt tribute to her late mother.

In the second session, audiences were treated to Ada Apa Dengan Cinta? (2002), the legendary film that established Dian’s prominence as an actress through her portrayal of the lead character, Cinta. During a lively Q&A session, Dian shared her thoughts on the film’s lasting nostalgia, even after 22 years. Audience members, including new viewers experiencing the story for the first time, were completely captivated by the touching saga of Cinta and Rangga.