The Film 'WHO IS HE' Officially Released, A Celebration of Indonesian Music on the Cinema Screen

Kapanlagi.com - As we move past the middle of 2025, the Indonesian film industry becomes more vibrant, one of which is the presence of WHO IS HE. This latest work by maestro Garin Nugroho officially premiered on August 28, 2025.

WHO IS HE not only narrates the history of the nation through love and cinema but also presents a celebration of Indonesian music through 19 musical numbers that have been modernly rearranged and performed live by the cast.

Read more news about the film WHO IS HE at Liputan6.com.

1. Nicholas Saputra to Gisella Anastasia

Notable is Nicholas Saputra in the challenge of portraying four characters across eras. There are also Amanda Rawles and Widi Mulia as well as Ariel Tatum, Monita Tahalea, Happy Salma, Joanna Alexandra, Dira Sugandi, Cindy Nirmala, and Gisella Anastasia.

From more than 30 songs considered in the development stage, 19 songs were ultimately chosen to be the heart of the film's musical. This repertoire includes classic works, traditional songs, to new numbers, some of which are enriched with additional lyrics written directly by Garin Nugroho.

2. The Pulse of Character Emotions

WHO IS HE (Credit: instagram.com/filmsiapadia)

There is Nurlela (Bing Slamet) sung by Monita Tahalea to Anak Jalanan (Guruh Sukarno Putra) performed by Dira Sugandi. In addition, songs like Kopi Susu, Ajoen-Ajoen, Payung Fantasi, Soleram, and Pop Culture complete the list of featured songs, presenting a musical bridge between history and the current generation.

"Each song was chosen not only to accompany the story but to become the pulse of the character's emotions. I want Indonesian classical music to feel relevant today, resonating with the feelings of the current generation," said Garin Nugroho.

3. Long Applause

"We rearranged those songs with contemporary arrangements, so that the audience can both reminisce and feel close. Music is a bridge of history as well as a universal language that connects all generations," added Faizal Lubis, the music arranger and executive producer.

The musical number performed by Monita Tahalea (Nurlela) and Dira Sugandi (Anak Jalanan) was a major highlight of the gala night. Their energy, interpretation, and vocal quality captivated the audience, resulting in a long applause.

(kpl/aal/tdr)