Iko Uwais Makes Directorial Debut with Film 'TIMUR', Gives Actors Full Freedom to Create

Kapanlagi.com - International action star Iko Uwais has finally taken a big step in his career by trying his hand at directing. Through his new production house, Uwais Pictures, he is ready to shake up the industry with his debut film titled TIMUR, which will be released in theaters starting December 18, 2025.

In a press conference held at Plaza Senayan, Central Jakarta, on Thursday (6/11/2025), Iko Uwais candidly revealed his unique approach to directing his actors. Unlike most directors, he actually gives full freedom to the cast to explore their own characters.

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1. Doesn't Want to Dictate the Actors

film TIMUR/KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

Iko admits that he does not want to dictate his actors rigidly. He believes that each actor has their own spirit and best interpretation.

"I do not direct the actors one by one. So, whatever each character has, that is their advantage," said Iko Uwais.

2. Choose to Let Go

Iko Uwais/instagram.com/uwaispictures

He analogizes his role as a puppeteer who allows his puppets to move on their own, creating an organic and natural 'magic'.

"I even create magic by letting go, the puppets play by themselves," he continued.

3. Experience as an Actor Becomes the Foundation

prescon EAST/KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

For Iko, years of experience as an actor have given him a deep understanding of how an actor thinks. He is well aware that dictating dialogue or gestures rigidly often does not result in sincere acting.

4. Preferably Organic

Iko becomes a soldier/instagram.com/uwaispictures

"If we write in my language to be released with examples like Aufa, it might not fit. So the concept is the same, it doesn't deviate from the norm, but the dialogue is very organic," he explained.

5. Anti Mainstream Directing Method

prescon Film EAST/KapanLagi.com/Sahal Fadhli

With this 'non-mainstream' directing method, the husband of Audy Item hopes to present a film that is not only full of action but also rich in emotion and character depth.

"I want to play, Miss, please Miss, how can we collaborate action with cutting skin, but the audience's hearts can also be cut like that," he concluded.

6. QnA About the Film 'TIMUR' Iko Uwais

1. What new step has Iko Uwais taken in his career?
Iko Uwais officially ventures into directing with his debut film titled TIMUR, which will be released in theaters on December 18, 2025.

2. Through which production house did Iko Uwais work on the film TIMUR?
The film TIMUR is produced by Iko's own production house, Uwais Pictures.

3. What distinguishes Iko Uwais's directing style from other directors?
Iko gives his actors complete freedom to explore their characters without rigid dictation.

4. How does Iko describe his role as a director in the creative process of this film?
He likens himself to a puppeteer who allows his puppets to move on their own, creating a natural and organic magic.

(kpl/aal/fbi)