Jakarta Film Week Opens With ‘Ah Girl,’ Closes With ‘The Sea Speaks His Name’

The sixth Jakarta Film Week is scheduled to take place from October 21 to October 25, with Singaporean director Ang Geck Geck Priscilla’s film “Ah Girl” selected to open the festival. The closing film will be Yosep Anggi Noen’s “The Sea Speaks His Name,” also known by its Indonesian title “Laut Bercerita,” which will have its Indonesian premiere at the event. The program lineup for the festival was officially announced on September 23 during a press conference held at CGV Grand Indonesia. The press conference was attended by Jakarta Deputy Governor, who was present to discuss the upcoming cinematic event. This year's festival marks the sixth iteration of the Jakarta Film Week, indicating a sustained commitment to showcasing diverse cinematic works within the Indonesian capital. The selection of “Ah Girl” to open the festival highlights international contributions to cinema, while the closing film, “The Sea Speaks His Name,” underscores the festival’s dedication to presenting Indonesian narratives and talent on a prominent platform. The Indonesian premiere of “Laut Bercerita” is anticipated to draw significant attention, offering audiences a first look at this particular work within its home country. The Jakarta Film Week aims to serve as a vital platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the art of filmmaking. The festival typically features a range of films, including features, shorts, documentaries, and retrospectives, often with a focus on regional and international cinema. By opening with a film from Singapore and closing with an Indonesian production, the festival signals an intent to foster cross-cultural dialogue and appreciation within the film community. The specific details regarding the full program, including other films, special screenings, and industry events, are expected to be released closer to the festival dates. The venue, CGV Grand Indonesia, is a well-known cinema complex in Jakarta, suggesting a central and accessible location for festival attendees. The announcement on September 23 provides a clear timeline for the festival's commencement and conclusion, allowing potential attendees to plan accordingly. The participation of the Jakarta Deputy Governor at the press conference signifies the event's importance and the support it receives from local authorities, potentially indicating its role in promoting cultural tourism and the creative economy of Jakarta. The dual focus on international and domestic cinema at the opening and closing ceremonies sets a tone for the festival's broader programming, which is likely to encompass a wide spectrum of genres and themes from around the globe and within Indonesia. The Jakarta Film Week has grown over its previous five editions to become a notable event in the Southeast Asian film calendar, attracting filmmakers and audiences alike. The selection of these two specific films for the opening and closing slots suggests a curatorial vision that balances international appeal with a strong emphasis on local storytelling and cinematic achievement.