Can't Move On with the Series 'GADIS KRETEK'? Here are Recommendations for Similar Shows - Love Story with Historical Background!

Kapanlagi.com - Written by Anjellia Alfina Verronica

The Indonesian Netflix series 'GADIS KRETEK' officially aired on November 2nd. Since its first day of airing, this series has received a lot of appreciation from viewers who stated that this is the best Indonesian series. 'GADIS KRETEK' even became a hot topic on social media, with many netizens saying that they can't move on after watching this series.

The series, adapted from the novel of the same title by Ratih Kumala, tells the story of a romance set in 1960s Indonesia, when the kretek cigarette industry was booming. In addition to presenting a love story, 'GADIS KRETEK' also incorporates history and even issues of discrimination against women. Historical, period, romance films or series like this are indeed a favorite for certain groups. So for Klovers who haven't moved on from the series 'GADIS KRETEK' and want to watch similar shows, you can watch the recommended shows below. Let's check them out! 

1. 'QUEEN CHARLOTTE: A BRIDGEDTON STORY (2023)

(photo credit: imdb.com)

This series can be on your watchlist. Telling the story of romance in the historical era of England, 'Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story' tells the love story between Queen Charlotte (India Amartefio) and King George III (Corey Mylchreest). When they were young, Queen Charlotte was arranged to marry King George III. Eventually, they got married. Through this series, we can see Queen Charlotte's struggle with her strong character and firm speaking tone in facing every problem, starting from racial discrimination, the role of women at that time, rigid palace protocols, to dealing with her husband's disturbed mental health. 

2. 'BUMI MANUSIA' (2019)

(photo credit: imdb.com)

Directed by Hanung Bramantyo and released in 2019, this film tells the story of a love struggle during the colonial era in Indonesia. The film 'BUMI MANUSIA' tells the story of two human beings, Minke (Iqbaal Ramadhan) and Annelies (Mawar de Jongh), who fall in love during the early 20th century colonial period, they experience inner turmoil due to their different statuses and backgrounds. Minke is a native young man, of pure Javanese descent. Meanwhile, Annelies is a mixed Dutch girl. The relationship between Minke and Annelies also faces rejection from various parties. One of them is Minke's father, who is a regent. Minke and Annelies must also confront the colonial law while fighting for their love.

3. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' (2005)

(photo credit: imdb.com)

Still with a story of love between different social statuses, 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is a romantic drama film set in the lives of English aristocrats in the late 18th century, adapted from the novel of the same name by Jane Austen. This film tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a smart and assertive girl, who is involved in a love story with Mr. Darcy, a wealthy man who initially appears arrogant. They are attracted to each other, but social status differences and misunderstandings complicate their relationship in the midst of 18th century English society that pays great attention to social class. This story shows a love journey full of conflict and opposition, while also depicting the social dynamics of that time.

4. 'THE DUCHESS' (2008)

(photo credit: imdb.com)

'THE DUCHESS' is a historical film that tells the real-life story of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, who lived in the 18th century. This story highlights her unhappy marriage to the Duke of Devonshire and her relationship with politician Charles Grey. Despite being expected to live within social constraints and an unhappy marriage, Georgiana finds love and emotional closeness with Grey, although their relationship is overshadowed by social norms and compliance with social structures at that time. 

5. 'THE SINKING OF VAN DER WIJCK' (2013)

(photo credit: imdb.com)

This film tells the story of a young man named Zainuddin who falls in love with a woman named Hayati. They love each other, but the difference in social status becomes a major barrier to their relationship. This love story is woven in the midst of Zainuddin's struggle to overcome social and cultural obstacles in Minangkabau during the early 20th century, where social status was highly regarded. This tragic love film is inspired by the sinking of the Van Der Wijck ship in Indonesian waters in 1936.

(kpl/ajl)