Ajil Ditto Shares Stories from the Filming of the Movie 'ISTIMEWA': Holding Back Tears Until the 'Cut' Moment

Kapanlagi.com - Ajil Ditto shared his experiences while involved in the film ISTIMEWA produced by Kairos Pictures. In this project, he plays Bagas, a figure who serves as a role model for children with disabilities. The film is based on a true story about a father's struggle to care for disabled children with sincerity, love, and boundless sacrifice.

"I always wait for the right moment for these kids to fight back but in a super elegant way. Without hurting others' feelings, without having to respond to insults with insults, mockery with mockery, and it turns out it is addressed in the film Istimewa," said Ajil Ditto when met at the Kairos Pictures office in South Jakarta, Thursday (23/7/2026).

Ajil mentioned that this reason was one of the motivations for him to accept the role offer. He sees an opportunity to showcase bravery in a way that does not hurt others, in line with the message conveyed by the film Istimewa.

1. About Bagas's Role and the Value of the Story

Bagas's character, played by Ajil, is depicted as a reliable figure for children with disabilities. His role is not only present on screen but is also supported by the spirit of the story drawn from real-life experiences.

This film places the figure of a father at the center of the story, highlighting the sincerity and consistency in caring for children with disabilities. This background becomes the main foundation for Ajil in building Bagas's character, which must appear strong in front of the children.

At the same time, Ajil emphasizes his personal drive to get involved because the narrative provides space for children to rise in an elegant way. He believes this value aligns with the message he wants to convey through his role.

2. Emotional Challenges on Set

During the shooting process, Ajil admits that the biggest challenge actually comes from within himself. He needs to manage his emotions so that Bagas appears as a support figure for the children, even though the situations on set often drain his feelings.

"The difficulty isn't with them, but with me having to hold back my emotions, often crying, because I have to appear strong since I'm here as Mas Bagas, like a big brother to my friends. I have to be as strong as possible in front of the camera," he said.

He also shared touching moments that arose right after the filming was completed. These situations often emerged suddenly after the director's final cue.

"Several times it felt like after pretending to be strong in front of the camera, once the action word was called and then cut, I would run and hug my father and cry," he revealed.

He also used a lot of his break time on set to build closeness, especially with the young actors and the crew. Instead of resting as usual, he chose to be with them.

"I really tried to bond and blend with my special friends and also with the crew, especially with my beloved fathers. Including that long-haired father over there, he's my dad too," he concluded.

3. Showtime and Cast Lineup

Director Ruben Adrian emphasizes the approach used in the making of this film. He states that the process is more focused on sincerity rather than just production techniques.

"For me, this is a film that we made with our hearts. We put our hearts into it, we made the film with our honesty and sincerity. And I believe that the honesty and sincerity of this story will resonate and reach everyone who watches it," explains Ruben Adrian.

SPECIAL is scheduled to be released on September 17, 2026. In addition to Ajil Ditto, the film also features Mathias Muchus, Agus Kuncoro, Yanni Melwani, Ence Bagus, Aldi, Bella, Bambang Ceper, Niatus, Mustofa, Ren, and Ricky Komo.

This project by Kairos Pictures encapsulates strong real-life experiences as the foundation of the story, with Ajil Ditto playing the role of Bagas. The series of shooting processes and character arrangements are carried out to convey the message of sincerity and courage that is at the heart of the film.

(kpl/far/ums)