Ernest Prakasa and Mira Lesmana Talk About the Future of National Film, From Hope - Difficulties in the Pandemic Era

Kapanlagi.com - Celebrating National Film Day 2022 which falls today, Netflix invited Indonesian filmmakers to talk about the challenges and hopes for the national film industry. Among those present were Mira Lesmana, Ernest Prakasa, Muhammad Zaidy, and Shanty Harmayn.

These renowned filmmakers will have a conversation through the On The Scene program which airs on Netflix Indonesia's Youtube channel. They will share interesting perspectives that reflect the development of the national film industry.

In recent years, more and more Indonesian films have won awards, both domestically and globally. According to Miles Films producer, Mira Lesmana, this is a pride and motivation for filmmakers to compete in making masterpieces. "All of us in the Indonesian film industry try to create the best meaningful and high-quality works." Mira also emphasized that filmmakers should never feel that they have achieved cinematic excellence and should continue to strive for it.

1. Exploration of Genres

BASE Entertainment producer, Shanty Harmayn, emphasizes that the Indonesian film industry must introduce new genres and explore innovative methods of storytelling. "The demand for watching is different now. Indonesian audiences are not only watching local films, but are spoiled for choice with so many variations. Therefore, the Indonesian film industry must explore new genres."

Director Ernest Prakasa also believes that in addition to exploring genres, filmmakers can try to make breakthroughs with ideas that have been considered less marketable. "Small examples like that are very refreshing to me," he said.

2. Filmmaking Challenges in the Pandemic Era

The pandemic era that began in 2020 posed a unique challenge for everyone, including Indonesian filmmakers. In the midst of a frustrating situation, they tried to adapt and became increasingly aware of the importance of collaboration. "When facing greater challenges, such as this pandemic, we must collaborate and exchange ideas because we cannot face it alone," said Shanty.

On the other hand, Palari Films producer, Muhammad Zaidy (Eddy), believes that the pandemic situation could be a sign of the times, "There are two types of films that can be seen from their time: films after World War II and films that were born after or during the COVID-19 pandemic. I think that also becomes a sign of how those works are known and maybe we can identify them later."

Eddy also expressed his gratitude towards streaming platforms like Netflix who “at difficult times, filmmakers can be helped because we have a platform to keep working." He also added that cinemas and streaming platforms must coexist and filmmakers must be able to adapt.

3. Hopes of Filmmakers

Filmmakers are optimistic about the future of the Indonesian film industry. They hope that more film schools will be established to produce young filmmakers, more women will work in the film industry and tell stories about women, and a safe environment will be created for workers in this industry.

In addition, Ernest also hopes that more audiences will appreciate the hard work of Indonesian filmmakers by not watching pirated works. He also believes that streaming platforms like Netflix can help increase solidarity and appreciation for Indonesian films. "Netflix has a clear vision and respects filmmakers. Its presence provides a place for us to experiment, be creative, have ideals, and this will definitely have a positive impact on the Indonesian film industry," said Ernest.

So what are you waiting for, KLovers? Just watch the discussion of the filmmakers here and Happy National Film Day!

(kpl/tmd)