Indonesian Director Ariani Darmawan's Comeback Film 'Jani Be Good' to Premiere at Tokyo International Film Festival

A Cinematic Return: Unveiling 'Jani Be Good'

The Long-Awaited Return to Filmmaking for Ariani Darmawan

Indonesian director Ariani Darmawan marks her return to the cinematic world following a 15-year hiatus. Her inaugural feature film, 'Jani Be Good,' is poised for its global debut in the Asian Future competition at the 39th Tokyo International Film Festival, captivating audiences with its compelling narrative.

Exclusive Sneak Peek: 'Jani Be Good' Trailer Unveiled

Ahead of its anticipated premiere, an exclusive trailer for 'Jani Be Good' has been released. The film, known as 'Desember Jani' in Indonesia, is a production of Jakarta-based Palari Films.

A Multi-Generational Tale: The Narrative Heart of 'Jani Be Good'

The storyline unfolds over four days in December, charting the experiences of four women representing three distinct generations. At the core is 13-year-old Jani, portrayed by Chempa Puteri, who navigates the complexities of the women in her life while discovering her own voice. Sigi Wimala, Hyori Mika, and Tutie Kirana complete the main cast as Winnie, Julia, and Oma, respectively.

Collaborative Storytelling: Darmawan's Vision and Hariadi's Pen

Darmawan's choice of Cyntha Hariadi to pen the screenplay was deliberate, inspired by Hariadi's short story collection, 'Manifesto Flora.' 'Jani Be Good' marks Hariadi's debut in feature film writing. Darmawan shared that the film's genesis stemmed from contemplating the subtle interactions, tensions, and unspoken sentiments within a household. Her personal journey into motherhood profoundly influenced her perspective on parent-child dynamics, shaping 'Jani' into a lens through which to explore intergenerational understanding.

A Team of Talented Women Across Generations

The film's creative core mirrors its thematic concerns, with women from various generations contributing their expertise. Darmawan herself was a notable figure in Indonesian short filmmaking from the late 2000s to early 2010s, with her 2008 short 'Sugiharti Halim' earning a spot at the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.

Producer's Perspective: More Than a Comeback

Producer Meiske Taurisia of Palari Films initiated Darmawan's return to filmmaking by inquiring about her most transformative life experience during her break: becoming a mother. Taurisia emphasizes that 'Jani Be Good' transcends a mere comeback story, serving as a platform to amplify the voices and experiences of women across different ages.

Journey to the Big Screen: From HAF to Tokyo Premiere

The project gained recognition at the Hong Kong Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) in March, preceding its selection for the Tokyo International Film Festival. Following its festival run, 'Jani Be Good' is scheduled for a theatrical release in Indonesian cinemas on December 10.

Palari Films: A Legacy of Acclaimed Cinema

Founded in 2016 by Taurisia and Muhammad Zaidy, Palari Films boasts a distinguished portfolio, including 'Vengeance Is Mine, All Others Pay Cash,' winner of the Golden Leopard at the 74th Locarno Film Festival. Their other notable works include 'Aruna and Her Palate,' 'Posesif,' 'Ali & Ratu Ratu Queens,' 'Dear David,' the Netflix original 'Borderless Fog,' and the recent 'Sleep No More