In this special filmmakers interview edition, four Indonesian directors share their reflections on their connection with the Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF), a festival that, especially in its 20th edition, has become not just a screening platform but a vibrant space that reignites the creative energy of filmmakers across the nation.
Joko Anwar, director of acclaimed films such as Siksa Kubur (2024), Perempuan Tanah Jahanam (2019), and Pengabdi Setan (2017), is almost never absent from JAFF. He describes this year as one of the most spirited editions yet. “I come every year, but this time the energy is incredible. There’s the JAFF Market. So coming to the festival feels even better—purely to watch films,” he said. For Joko, JAFF offers a unique cinematic experience, not only to have a cinematic experience, but also to experience a festival atmosphere filled with warmth, discovery, and community.
Young filmmaker Aco Tenriyagelli, who first attended JAFF in 2018, feels that his filmmaking career grew alongside the festival’s evolution. “Each year gets more joyful because I’ve grown alongside JAFF. From Layar Komunitas in 2018, to Asian Perspectives in 2019, and continuing to develop until my debut feature was selected as JAFF’s closing film this year,” he said. The world premiere of his first feature, Suka Duka Tawa, as the closing film of JAFF20 gives this two-decade milestone a deeply personal meaning. Aco hopes to stay productive and continue growing with JAFF in the years ahead.
Meanwhile, Teddy Soeriaatmadja (The Architecture of Love / 2024, Something in the Way / 2013, Lovely Man / 2011), who has attended JAFF multiple times, screening his works and even serving as a jury member, shared how the festival consistently brings fresh energy. “Welcoming JAFF is always exciting. As a filmmaker, coming here is a kind of recharge. The energy I get here is so important, it becomes inspiration,” he said. Teddy added that every time he returns from JAFF, he feels compelled to make a new film, driven by the works he watches and the festival’s dynamic atmosphere. “I’ve known JAFF since it was much smaller. I’ve witnessed its growth, and I hope it will continue to expand. I truly believe JAFF will become one of the world’s most important film festivals.”
Director Hanung Bramantyo (Gowok / 2025, Ipar adalah Maut / 2024, Ayat-Ayat Cinta / 2008) also shared his thoughts after visiting JAFF Market, which he felt was significantly busier than the year before. Having followed JAFF since its early days, he sees the festival’s 20-year growth as the result of consistency and dedication from the organizers, especially JAFF Festival Director Ifa Isfansyah and JAFF Executive Director Ajish Dibyo. “JAFF used to be simple—one venue, nowhere near as crowded as today,” he recalled. His hope remains constant: for JAFF to stay consistent and continue fostering new generations of filmmakers.
Don’t miss the full festival experience and cinematic journey through outstanding selection of films from across Asian cinema, only at JAFF, running until 6 December 2025.
Full program information and schedules for JAFF20 can be found at jaff-filmfest.org and on social media @jaffjogja.
Photos: JAFF Documentation Team
