'GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA' Seizes the Opportunity to Compete on the International Stage at IFFR 2025

Kapanlagi.com - The film GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA, with the international title Gowok-Javanese Kamasutra, has successfully entered the Big Screen Competition at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2025. This prestigious competition will take place from January 30 to February 9, 2025, and serves as a platform for films that prioritize aesthetic exploration alongside entertainment value.

Directed by Hanung Bramantyo and produced by Raam Punjabi, this film competes with 12 other international works. The participation of GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA is a tangible proof that stories with local cultural roots can compete on the world stage.

“We are very proud and grateful that GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA has been selected to compete in the Big Screen Competition at the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2025. This proves that local stories with strong cultural richness can be appreciated on the international stage,” said producer Raam Punjabi.

Director Hanung Bramantyo also expressed his gratitude for this achievement. This film, which raises a controversial theme, is considered to have a strong universal appeal, making it worthy of competing at the global level.

1. Answer to Prayer

"I thought this might just be an official selection. But when I learned that Gowok got the opportunity to compete, of course, it is a great honor. I don't know what to say other than thank you and be grateful," said Hanung.

"I also feel that this might be a blessing and an answer to my prayer during Hajj some time ago. At that time, I prayed that my films would not only be enjoyed by the Indonesian people but could also reach the entire world. If this IFFR is the way for my work to penetrate a wider world, then I am truly grateful to Allah for granting my prayer," he continued.

This film is set between 1955-1965, telling the story of a woman who works as a gowok. She is a teacher who teaches sexual skills to prospective grooms so that they can appreciate and love their partners, even if only in bed. This profession was later considered controversial and was discontinued after the events of 1965, leaving its existence as a legend.

2. Starring Raihaanun to Reza Rahadian

GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA (Credit: Special)

"The story of Gowok is very sexy. I think it's not only in the eyes of the Indonesian people but also universally. In Indonesia, themes like this may be controversial, but I believe abroad, this theme becomes very interesting like God Allow Me to Sin," explained Hanung.

This film is strengthened by a lineup of talented actors, including Raihaanun, Lola Amaria, Reza Rahadian, Slamet Rahardjo, and Devano Danendra. With a strong narrative and deep acting, this film is expected to captivate the hearts of international audiences.

GOWOK KAMASUTRA JAWA is scheduled to screen at IFFR on February 2, 3, 5, and 6, 2025. This achievement is proof that works based on local culture can be accepted on the international stage, opening greater opportunities for Indonesian filmmakers to showcase their talents in the global film world.

(kpl/aal/tdr)