Ariani Darmawan, an Indonesian director, is making a triumphant return to the film industry after a 15-year hiatus with her debut feature, "Jani Be Good". This highly anticipated film will premiere at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival in the Asian Future competition, marking a significant moment in Darmawan's career. The trailer for the film, which is titled "Desember Jani" in Indonesian, has been released, offering a glimpse into the captivating story it promises to tell.
The film centers around four women spanning three generations, with a particular focus on 13-year-old Jani, the youngest in the household. Through her journey, Jani learns to understand the roles her female relatives play and discovers her own voice. The talented cast includes Chempa Puteri as Jani, Sigi Wimala as Winnie, Hyori Mika as Julia, and Tutie Kirana as the grandmother, Oma.
Darmawan's decision to collaborate with Cyntha Hariadi on the screenplay is intriguing. Hariadi's short story collection, "Manifesto Flora," inspired the film, and this marks her first feature script. Darmawan's personal experiences, including becoming a mother, influenced her perspective on the relationships between children and parents, shaping the narrative and character development.
The film's creative team is a diverse representation of different generations, adding depth to the storytelling. Darmawan's previous work includes the short film "Sugiharti Halim," which was selected for the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. Her return to filmmaking after a long break is not just a personal achievement but also a significant event for the Indonesian film industry.
Producer Meiske Taurisia of Palari Films, the production company behind the film, emphasizes the importance of this project. "Jani Be Good" is not merely a filmmaker's return but a platform for the voices and experiences of women from various generations to converge. Taurisia's statement highlights the film's impact on the industry and its potential to inspire and resonate with audiences.
Palari Films, founded in 2016, has a remarkable track record, including the film "Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash," which won the Golden Leopard at the 74th Locarno Film Festival. Their other notable works include "Aruna and Her Palate," "Posesif," and the Netflix original "Borderless Fog." The film's journey from its presentation at the Hong Kong Asia Film Financing Forum to its upcoming release in Indonesian cinemas is a testament to the power of storytelling and the film industry's ability to bring diverse voices to the forefront.
