Marjan Cinematic Universe: 5 Marjan Ads from Year to Year that Never Fail to Attract Attention

Kapanlagi.com - Written by: Lily Ariani

To determine the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims normally observe the sighting of the new moon. However, there is a unique way to remind Muslims that the fasting month is approaching. This method only exists in Indonesia, which is by watching Marjan syrup ads.

Marjan consistently releases ads in the form of short films once a year. This unique marketing trick has successfully made Marjan ads one of the ads that stick in the minds of Indonesian people. The quality of the released short films is even considered on par with Marvel, earning the Marjan ad series the title of Marjan Cinematic Universe.

Never failing to attract attention, this year Marjan has released a Ramadan ad teaser. In the 15-second video, Marjan showcases excellent editing skills and visually stunning effects that are no less impressive than those in feature films. Is it true that Marjan is actually a production house disguised as a syrup factory, as claimed by netizens?

Here are 5 Marjan ads from year to year that you must not miss!

1. TIMUN MAS & BUTO IJO (2019)

youtube.com/@MarjanBoudoin

In 2019, Marjan adapted one of the famous folklore stories from Central Java. That folklore story is none other than Timun Mas.

The story begins when a couple who couldn't have a child finally accepts an offer from Buto Ijo. They are given cucumber seeds. The seeds will grow and produce a large fruit that contains a child inside.

What is unique about the 2019 version of Marjan's advertisement is the combination of traditional and Islamic elements throughout the story. After going through unsuccessful pursuits, Buto Ijo decides to make peace with Timun Mas and enjoy the Eid moment together. Not to forget, Buto Ijo also drinks Marjan syrup. Funny, isn't it?

2. PURBASARI & LUTUNG KASARUNG (2020)

youtube.com/@MarjanBoudoin

Still carrying the theme of Indonesian folklore, this time Marjan presents the legendary characters Purbasari and Lutung Kasarung. Unable to accept her sister as the successor to the throne, Purbararang summons a witch to curse Purbasari. Deciding to leave the kingdom, Purbasari instead meets Lutung Kasarung. Their sincerity and pure hearts are able to overcome the evil magic and break the curse.

Through the short film adaptation of Lutung Kasarung, Marjan conveys a message of goodness during the month of Ramadan. When good forces unite, evil is destroyed. Everyone is joyful and enjoys the Eid moments together with Marjan.

3. SINGABARONG & KELANA (2021)

screenshot from youtube.com/@MarjanBoudoin

Not running out of ideas, Marjan brings the theme of superheroes in the 2021 version of the advertisement. It is told that there are two heroes named Singabarong and Kelana. Although both have a mission to maintain peace, Singabarong and Kelana cannot work together.

When Codot Bati comes and kidnaps the children, Singabarong and Kelana have no choice. They decide to unite to eradicate evil.

In promoting Indonesian culture, Marjan takes inspiration from Reog Ponorogo superheroes. The visuals and action scenes presented are very satisfying, truly equivalent to a widescreen film.

4. DEWI SRI VS KALA WERENG (2022)

screenshot youtube.com/@MarjanBoudoin

In its year, the Marjan Cinematic Universe tells the story of Dewi Sri battling Kala Wereng. In the Village of the Magical Valley, the residents are ready to welcome and celebrate the bountiful harvest. However, Kala Wereng and the Pest Army suddenly come and disrupt everything. As the protector, Dewi Sri tries to stop Kala Wereng and the Pest Army who want to plunder the harvest.

Dewi Sri successfully restores peace in the Village of the Magical Valley. Dewi Sri and the residents then gather, enjoying Marjan syrup while celebrating their victory. Marjan is the perfect dish to refresh thirst and restore happiness.

Divided into three parts of short films, the 2022 version of the Marjan Cinematic Universe showcases local wisdom in the form of agricultural traditions in Indonesia. Filmed in the middle of rice fields and mountains, the 2022 Marjan advertisement also highlights the natural beauty of the earth.

5. BARUNA THE OCEAN GUARDIAN (2023)

screenshot youtube.com/@MarjanBoudoin

In the short film titled BARUNA THE OCEAN GUARDIAN, Marjan tells the story of a sea guardian named Baruna. The trash polluting the ocean unexpectedly awakens a dragon-like monster that attacks the fishermen. As a sea guardian, Baruna tries to fight and destroy the monster.

BARUNA THE OCEAN GUARDIAN is divided into two parts of short films. In the film, there are scenes of the community gathering around the sea, enjoying Marjan. Marjan syrup successfully brings together Baruna and the fishermen who have fought together to eliminate the dragon monster.

Not only promoting Marjan syrup, BARUNA THE OCEAN GUARDIAN also addresses environmental issues. Through this short film, Marjan tries to remind us of the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness. This makes Marjan's advertisement deserving of various appreciation and praise.

6. Watch the Latest Marjan Teaser

Don't forget to watch the latest Marjan advertisement teaser! The editing and visual effects are top-notch.

Watch the teaser here!

(kpl/lly)