Ariani Darmawan Returns to Filmmaking With ‘Jani Be Good’

Indonesian director Ariani Darmawan is marking her return to filmmaking after a 15-year hiatus with her debut feature film, titled “Jani Be Good.” The drama, known as “Desember Jani” in its native Indonesian, is set to have its world premiere in the Asian Future competition at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival. Variety has exclusively debuted the film's first trailer, offering a glimpse into the narrative.

“Jani Be Good” is produced by Palari, a Jakarta-based production company. The film's premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival, a significant event in the Asian film calendar, highlights its potential to gain international recognition. The festival's Asian Future competition specifically focuses on emerging talent and innovative cinematic works from across the continent, providing a platform for directors like Darmawan to showcase their vision.

Darmawan's extended absence from directing feature films underscores the personal significance of this project. Her previous work, though not detailed in this report, has evidently left an impact that allows for a highly anticipated return. The decision to premiere the film at a major international festival like Tokyo suggests confidence in its artistic merit and storytelling.

The trailer release, handled by Variety, serves as a crucial promotional tool, generating buzz and anticipation among cinephiles and industry professionals. The visual and narrative elements presented in the trailer will be key in shaping initial perceptions of “Jani Be Good” ahead of its festival screening. The film's participation in the Asian Future competition means it will be judged alongside other promising international productions, further amplifying its visibility.

The 39th Tokyo International Film Festival is scheduled to take place from October 28 to November 6, 2024. This annual event attracts filmmakers, distributors, and audiences from around the globe, fostering cultural exchange and business opportunities within the film industry. Darmawan's film will be a notable entry in this year's festival lineup, representing Indonesian cinema on a global stage. The film's narrative, as suggested by its title and genre, likely delves into complex human emotions and experiences, aiming to resonate with a diverse audience.