Home Video Menu
Home Prev Next Menu
Better experience in portrait mode.
Manoj Punjabi Calls Casting 'CHILDREN OF HEAVEN' as Mission Impossible

Manoj Punjabi Calls Casting 'CHILDREN OF HEAVEN' as Mission Impossible

Celebrity Activities

kapanlagi
Swipe Up to See the Photos
Manoj Punjabi Calls Casting 'CHILDREN OF HEAVEN' as Mission Impossible

The production house MD Pictures is making waves again by adapting the legendary 1997 Iranian film, CHILDREN OF HEAVEN. The producer, Manoj Punjabi, admitted that he initially felt hesitant because he realized the immense value of the original work by director Majid Majidi.

Manoj Punjabi shared that his interest emerged after he watched the original film with his family. Although the film is a classic, he found very universal and relevant human values that could be brought into the culture of society in Indonesia. Here are the details.

<nil>

"I honestly have never watched the film CHILDREN OF HEAVEN. I think, oh, I missed it, what a shame. Then we bought the IP, I know this is a big film, a film with high values, but I haven't watched it," said Manoj Punjabi when met at MD Place, Kuningan, South Jakarta, on Monday (04/05/2026).

<nil>

After solidifying his intention, the biggest challenge arose in the process of searching for the main actors. Manoj Punjabi realized that the main strength of this film lies in the characters of the children, so finding the right figures to portray Ali and Zahra became a top priority.

<nil>

This search process was described by Manoj as a mission that was almost impossible to accomplish. He wanted to ensure that this Indonesian adaptation would not be less emotional than the original version that was once nominated for an Oscar.

<nil>

"The hardest part here is who wants to be Ali and Zahra? That's a mission impossible. Because in the original, if you've watched it, it's perfect casting. The challenge is how am I going to replace Ali Zahra?" said the man who is now 53 years old.

<nil>

Fortunately, through collaboration with director Hanung Bramantyo, they finally found Jared Ali and Humairah Jahra. Manoj feels very satisfied with the final acting results of the two child stars who were able to bring a touching atmosphere to the shooting location.

<nil>

This film also marks a change in strategy for MD Pictures in crafting a story. If they are usually associated with romantic dramas or massive horror, this time they chose to focus on the strong and touching values of family sacrifice.

<nil>

Manoj Punjabi emphasizes that he will do his utmost to promote this film throughout the country. He believes that a good work created with sincerity will always find a place in the hearts of its viewers.

<nil>

The plan is for this film to be a special presentation for Indonesian families during this year's Idul Adha holiday. Manoj hopes that the message of goodness within this film can provide a positive reflection for anyone who watches it later.