Netflix unveils busy Indonesian slate with projects from Timo Tjahjanto, Joko Anwar and Kamila Andini
Netflix has announced its biggest slate of Indonesian projects yet, with seven new movies and TV series from top local talent, including Timo Tjahjanto (The night is coming for us), Joko Anwar (Impetigore) and Kamila Andini (Before, now and then).
Tjahjanto directs his first action comedy film for Netflix, The big 4, about a female detective who teams up with a group of assassins to investigate the murder of her father. Internationally known for its horror and action films, including cult films as well Head shot and The devil take youTjahjanto has signed a multi-project deal with Netflix.
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Anwar, also known internationally for his stylish action and horror films, is working on a series of sci-fi thrillers, Nightmares and Daydreams, for Netflix. The series has several stories about ordinary people encountering strange phenomena. “Indonesia is full of unique and extraordinary stories. I am always delighted to have the chance to present these stories to a wider audience,” Anwar said.
As previously announced, producer and showrunner Shanty Harmayn is working with directors Kamila Andini and Ifa Isfansyah on Gadis KretekNetflix’s first Indonesian period drama, set against the backdrop of the country’s cigarette industry in the 1960s.
The slate also includes Dear David, a coming-of-age story, created by Muhammad Zaidy and directed by Lucky Kuswandi; quirky sitcom Ex-Addicts Club (Club Kecanduan Mantan) by Salman Aristo; Today we will talk about that day (Hari Ini Akan Kita Ceritakan Nanti), the latest installment in a popular franchise from director Angga Dwimas Sasongko; and chaotic comedy (Komedi Kacau), a series from director and comedian Raditya Dika.
Indonesia is shaping up to be the latest battleground in Asia as streamers jostle for local consumer attention and growth in the region. Amazon Prime recently announced its first slate of Southeast Asian Originals, which included several Indonesian movies and series, including projects from Anwar and Andini. Disney+ Hotstar, Hong Kong-based Viu, Tencent Video and iQiyi in China and local streamer Vidio are also investing in Indonesian originals.
Netflix has already aired Indonesian content, including Lucky Kuswandi’s comedy-drama Queens Ali and Ratu Ratu and crime drama Wregas Bhanuteja Photocopier and has content deals with several local talents.
The streamer launched in Indonesia in 2016, but had a bumpy ride when it was blocked by local phone company Telkom Indonesia for content deemed inappropriate. This ban was reversed in 2020 and last year Telkom signed a partnership agreement with Netflix to offer the service on its IndiHome and Telkomsel platforms.
“The Indonesian film industry has evolved rapidly in recent years. More and more creators and stories from Indonesia are now being seen and loved by audiences and critics around the world,” said Rusli Eddy, Content Manager, Indonesia, Netflix.
“Our upcoming selection from Indonesia offers you authentic and unique stories, a representation of our country rich in histories and cultures, and brings you high caliber talent whose significant works have shaped the film industry.”
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