8 Interesting Facts About the Film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA, Highlighting Another Side of a Culture

The film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA has become a hot topic of discussion because it raises an unusual theme. Directed by Hanung Bramantyo, this film highlights another side of Javanese culture that has rarely been brought to the big screen. Not only that, but this film has also managed to capture international attention.

Featuring renowned actors and actresses, this film is presented aesthetically and boldly showcases the sensitive aspects of Javanese society in the 1960s. The themes of history, culture, and Javanese spirituality take center stage in this film, which runs for more than two hours.

Curious about what interesting facts are behind the film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA? Here are eight interesting facts that KLovers need to know about this film!

1. Based on a True Story of a Gowok in the 1960s

Film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA (credit: IMDB)

The film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA tells the story of a gowok, a woman who serves as a shaman or sexual teacher before marriage. This practice was common in the 1960s as part of traditional sexual education in Javanese society. The backdrop of the story also intersects with the social and political dynamics of 1965.

2. Breaks into the Rotterdam Film Festival

GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA successfully made it through the selection for the Big Screen Competition at the 2025 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR). This festival is one of the most prestigious in Europe and only selects 12 films from around the world. The presence of this film is a testament to the quality of Indonesian cinema on the global stage.

3. Tell the Story of Gowok Tradition and Social Changes After 1965

Film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA (credit: IMDB)

The figure of gowok in this film is depicted as a woman who plays an important role in sexual education before marriage. However, post-1965, their roles were replaced by formal institutions such as KUA. This illustrates the social transition and political pressure on old traditions.

4. Hanung Creates the Mantra 'Atmaprawesa'

Hanung created a fictional mantra named Atmaprawesa, inspired by the Chinese text Tsu Nu Jing. Its purpose is to ensure that the actors do not experience spiritual disturbances during the shooting process. He also wants to maintain the originality of the storyline without involving sensitive original mystical elements.

5. Presenting the Story of Sexuality with Cinematic Aesthetics

The film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA (credit: IMDB)

The film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA raises themes of sexuality and the husband-wife relationship wrapped in a strong cinematic presentation. Hanung presents an erotic side that is packaged aesthetically and artistically, making it controversial yet globally appealing. This also adds to its attraction at international festivals.

6. Actors Learn the Ngapak Dialect

Devano Danendra is challenged to step out of his comfort zone by playing a character who speaks Ngapak. He must learn the distinctive dialect and understand the polite speech style of Javanese nobility. In addition, Devano also delves into local philosophy to fully develop his character.

7. The 15th Film Collaboration of Reza Rahadian and Hanung

Film GOWOK: KAMASUTRA JAWA (credit: IMDB)

Reza Rahadian collaborates again with Hanung Bramantyo for the 15th time through this film. He plays the character Kamajaya, who is full of pressure and emotional complexity. This collaboration began with the film Perempuan Berkalung Sorban (2009) and continues in various projects.

8. Show Many Big Names

In addition to Reza and Devano, this film also features performances from Lola Amaria, Raihaanun, and Djenar Maesa Ayu. The shooting location was in Sleman, Yogyakarta, to present a strong traditional atmosphere. Produced by MVP Pictures and Dapur Films, this film has a duration of about 130 minutes and is ready to shake the big screens in Indonesia and the world.

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(kpl/psp)