Serious hit maker: Joko's films are not only box-office hits in Indonesia; they also explore heavy issues of the country while subverting societal norms and expectations. – Photos courtesy of Team Ceritalah
JOKO Anwar is a protean talent.
Switching from genre to genre, the 44-year-old cineaste and former “enfant terrible” has grown ever more assured in his handling of the language, rhythm and musicality of film.
Already a subscriber? Log in.
Subscribe or renew your subscriptions to win prizes worth up to RM68,000!
Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.
Joko's world
Serious hit maker: Joko's films are not only box-office hits in Indonesia; they also explore heavy issues of the country while subverting societal norms and expectations. – Photos courtesy of Team Ceritalah
Joko: ‘I am political... But here’s the thing, part of being a functional citizen is that you must be active in voicing out about the way your country is being run.’
Many of Joko’s films revolve around the role of women as mothers and wives, like 'Ratu Ilmu Hitam'.
The two female protagonists from 'Impetigore', played by Tara Basro (left) and Marissa Anita.
'Gundala', an action flick based on a popular Indonesian comic series, is to be the first of eight planned movies in the Bumilangit Universe. Gundala’s protagonist, Sancaka, is played by Abimana Aryasatya.
This 2017 film is Joko’s biggest hit with 4.2 million viewers.
The writer with a member of Team Ceritalah, after watching ‘Gundala’ in Kuala Lumpur.
The death of Sancaka’s father is a pivotal moment in 'Gundala'.
Team Ceritalah interviewing Joko Anwar in Jakarta.
Joko’s work is reminiscent of the African-American director Jordan Peele ('Get Out' and 'Us'), whose work is underpinned by a sense of dread and barely hidden violence.
Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
