20 Best Indonesian Documentary Movies
Indonesia consistently produces high-quality films across various genres, including documentaries. These cinematic works tell real-life stories and have gained international recognition, even winning prestigious awards.
Recognizing and appreciating these outstanding documentaries is important. That's why Showpoiler is proud to feature a curated list of the best Indonesian documentaries that you must watch. Explore the selection below!
1. Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee and Jessica Wongso
"Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee, and Jessica Wongso" went viral in Indonesia as one of Netflix's documentaries. The movie highlights the infamous case of Mirna Salihin, who tragically passed away after consuming Vietnamese iced coffee that was allegedly tainted with cyanide.
The documentary adopts a balanced approach, typical of Netflix's style. The movie begins by outlining the sequence of events that led to Mirna Salihin's death at Cafe Olivier. After consuming the Vietnamese iced coffee she ordered, Mirna Salihin suddenly went into convulsions and tragically died on the spot.
Considering the unusual circumstances surrounding Mirna's death, the police began an investigation, suspecting cyanide poisoning. Among the three people present at the scene, Jessica Kumala Wongso, one of Mirna's friends, came under police suspicion. The basis for their suspicion came from CCTV footage and Jessica's questionable behavior.
However, Jessica's defense did not remain silent. They tried to challenge the prosecutor's stance by enlisting the help of various experts. Thanks to the legal sharpness of Otto Hasibuan, a well-known lawyer in Indonesia, public perception began to shift and made many people doubt Jessica's involvement as the murderer.
2. Pulau Plastik: Perjalanan dan Catatan untuk Masa Depan
Plastic Island: A Journey and Notes for the Future, a 2021 Netflix documentary directed by Rahung Nasution and Dandhy Dwi Laksono, has received much praise. IMDb gave it a high rating of 7.6/10, while Cultura Magazine gave it a rating of 4/5.
The documentary discusses environmental issues, focusing on the growing plastic waste crisis in Indonesia. The movie begins with a fascinating experiment using plastic waste and then delves into the journey of Gede Robi, a Balinese musician driven by concerns about environmental legacy for future generations, including his own descendants.
Robi's journey takes an interesting turn when he meets Prigi Arisandi in Gresik, East Java. Together, they trace the origins of the trash piling up in Indonesian waters, and discover a wealth of information about plastic waste. This documentary highlights why single-use plastics must be stopped and how to stop using them.
3. Atas Nama Daun
Atas Nama Daun is a documentary that is sure to evoke strong emotions, especially if watched only halfway. Directed by Mahatma Putra, this documentary digs into the topic of the marijuana plant, which has sparked a heated debate in recent years regarding its legalization in Indonesia.
"Atas Nama Daun" offers a comprehensive understanding of this controversial leaf from various points of view. The documentary is divided into five segments: "Atas Nama Riset", "Atas Nama Daun", "Atas Nama Hukum", "Atas Nama Cinta", and "Atas Nama Hak".
In the "Atas Nama Riset" segment, Aristo Pangaribuan, a lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia, presented a scientific paper on the criminalization of marijuana in Indonesia. This scientific work became the basis for research and the making of this documentary.
The documentary features three speakers who were involved in a heated debate on whether marijuana should be legalized in Indonesia. This intense discussion unfolds through the segments Atas Nama Hukum", "Atas Nama Cinta", and "Atas Nama Hak".
Viewers may find themselves grappling with a dilemma, as marijuana has the potential to have a negative impact on one's life when consumed in excess. However, for some people, marijuana is a cure for life-threatening illnesses.
4. Golek Garwo
Golek Garwo is a traditional matchmaking event in Yogyakarta, which is carried out for generations and held every month. This unique tradition is the main theme of Wahyu Utami's 30-minute short documentary film, which beautifully showcases the culture of Yogyakarta.
The documentary's narrative follows Basri, a 62-year-old widower who works as a laborer, in his search for a life partner. After losing his wife and seeing his daughter get married, Basri lives alone in Yogyakarta.
Among the hundreds of participants, Basri falls in love at first sight with Musiyem, a 56-year-old woman. Their meeting may have been brief, but it was enough to spark a deep connection that led them to consider a more serious relationship.
The couple's love story culminated in their decision to participate in a mass wedding ceremony. However, Basri's desire to build a life together with Musiyem turns out to be more challenging than he imagined.
5. Banda The Dark Forgotten Trail
Banda The Dark Forgotten Trail is a documentary film directed by Jay Subyakto and produced by Lifelike Pictures. The movie explores Indonesia's rich and diverse natural resources, which became the target of European colonizers.
The film's narrative centers on nutmeg, a spice native to the Banda Islands in Maluku, which in medieval times was more valuable than gold. Nutmeg became the focal point of relentless pursuit by various countries amid global geopolitical instability.
Historically, the British occupied the Banda Islands. However, the Dutch were determined to control them, and eventually negotiated an exchange of the Banda Islands for Nieuw Amsterdam (now Manhattan, New York).
The Dutch conquest of the Banda Islands marked the beginning of slavery and mass cruelty in Indonesia. However, it also gave rise to a spirit of nationalism and multicultural identity that has become an enduring part of the world's historical heritage.
6. Heaven for Insanity
Heaven for Insanity is a documentary that follows the life of Watmo, a man struggling with schizophrenia. Due to his mental illness, the local neighborhood chief recommended that Watmo be placed in a mental hospital located on the suburbs of Jakarta.
During his stay at the institution, Watmo follows strict rules and is forced to adapt to the norms of society. There were several incidents where he had to be physically restrained, even chained, to maintain order. Fortunately, after only one week of treatment, Watmo was declared cured and allowed to leave the facility.
Thanks to the compelling storyline in Heaven for Insanity, Dria Soetomo's movie was acclaimed and won the Short Documentary Film award at the 2011 Anuu-ru Aboro International Film Festival in New Caledonia, France. The movie has also been screened at various prestigious international film festivals, including Rotterdam International Film Festival, IDFA Amsterdam, and as an official selection at Melbourne International Film Festival.
7. Jagal (The Act of Killing)
Jagal (The Act of Killing) caused a sensation at the beginning of its release due to its depiction of the anti-PKI massacres that took place in 1965-1966. The movie explores the lives of those responsible for the massacre, focusing on Anwar Congo, a central figure who played an important role in the right-wing paramilitary organization Pemuda Pancasila (PP) during that period.
Anwar Congo, who was previously a thug involved in extorting tickets at a movie theater in Medan, joined Pemuda Pancasila with his colleagues and gained the support of the New Order regime. He unnaturally turned the movie theater where he once worked into a place of gruesome torture and murder, targeting people suspected of communist affiliation, especially those of Chinese descent, in North Sumatra.
The movie features Anwar Congo's chilling confession, in which he reveals the brutal methods used to execute his victims. He even admitted to drinking his victims' blood and using drugs to overcome the psychological trauma that resulted from the killings.
Despite the highly sensitive topic in Indonesia, "Jagal" managed to earn a Best Documentary nomination at the prestigious Academy Awards. In addition, the film also received awards, including an award from the British Academy Film and Television Arts in 2013.
8. Nyanyian Akar Rumput
Nyanyian Akar Rumput, directed by Yuda Kurniawan, explores a long-forgotten case of human rights violations in Indonesia. The movie tells the inspiring journey of Fajar Merah, the son of poet and activist Wiji Thukul, who has a noble goal to revive his father's literary legacy that was lost during the New Order era.
For those who don't know him, Wiji Thukul is a figure who inspired many people with his poetry that became a powerful weapon against oppression. Fajar, together with his band Merah Bercerita, channeled the social and political essence of his father's poetry that was full of passion and criticism. However, Fajar Merah's efforts to convey his father's message faced severe challenges.
At the same time, the documentary provides a glimpse into Wiji Thukul's past, presenting insights from his former colleagues and archival footage showcasing his role as a poet and activist. The movie also highlights his involvement with the Democratic People's Party (PRD), an opposition party founded by youths and students to fight the New Order regime.
9. Help is on The Way
In 2019, PT Dua Pulau Digital released a documentary film titled 'Help is on the Way,' produced by Ismail Fahmi Lubis. This documentary won the Citra Cup for the Best Feature Length Documentary Film category at the 2019 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI).
Set in Indramayu and Taiwan, this documentary explores the lives of migrant workers abroad. In Indramayu, hundreds of women such as Sukma, Meri, Muji and Tari received training from the Balai Latihan Kerja Luar Negeri (BLKLN) to prepare themselves to work in Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore.
Despite completing the training, not all of these women were able to quickly find work in these countries. Some had to invest additional funds and endure waiting periods of up to 12 months.
Besides depicting the training process, 'Help is on the Way' also explores the motivations that drove these women to pursue opportunities as migrant workers abroad.
10. Kemarin
Released in 2020, 'Kemarin' is a documentary that tells the story of the natural tragedy that occurred in the Sunda Strait in 2018. The devastating tsunami that claimed the lives of several members of the Indonesian band Seventeen stirred the sympathy of many people.
Produced by Upie Guava, the movie premiered in Indonesian theaters on December 3, 2020. Unfortunately, the screening was suddenly stopped due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia that year.
The documentary provides an intimate portrait of Seventeen, explaining their formation and ultimately taking viewers through the harrowing moments of the 2018 Sunda Strait Tsunami, where several band members tragically lost their lives.
11. Semesta
Don't miss this amazing Indonesian documentary, 'Semesta' (2018), directed by Chairun Nissa and produced by Mandy Marahimin and famous Indonesian actor Nicholas Saputra.
The movie features a talented cast such as Soraya Cassandra, Marselus Hasan, Agustinus Pius Inam, and Almina Kacili, who each come from different backgrounds. 'Semesta' offers a fascinating overview of faith and culture across seven provinces in Indonesia.
The documentary engagingly depicts how these individuals face and cope with the challenges posed by extreme climate change, guided by their unique beliefs and cultures. It is worth noting that the film has successfully made its debut at the Suncine International Environmental Film Festival in Barcelona, Spain.
12. Senyap (The Lock of Silence)
American director Joshua Oppenheimer released a follow-up movie to 'Jagal' called 'Senyap' (The Lock of Silence). The movie explores the experiences of people who were persecuted and labeled as PKI sympathizers during the 1965-1966 period. The film centers on the story of Adi, a survivor, and his family who face accusations of involvement with the PKI.
In terms of recognition, 'Senyap' has an advantage over 'Jagal', winning several awards in the documentary film category. It made history as the first Indonesian film to receive an Oscar nomination. 'Senyap' debuted on December 10, 2014, in commemoration of World Human Rights Day.
13. Jalanan
Jalanan is a documentary that presents a glimpse into the lives of three street musicians in Jakarta. Directed by Daniel Ziv, it captures their daily struggle to make a living in a challenging urban landscape, while depicting moments of humor and joy.
Despite its simple premise, the movie, released in 2013, has received numerous awards. It won prestigious awards including the Magnolia Award at the 2014 Shanghai International Film Festival, the Macenant Award at the 2013 Busan International Film Festival, and awards at the Edmonton International Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival.
14. Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea is a documentary that has the power to resonate deeply with many people, especially women. The narrative revolves around the life of a young girl named Ona.
Living on Kaledupa Island in the Wakatobi Islands, Ona, like most teenagers, has high dreams and ambitions. She dreams of pursuing higher education in Kendari and becoming a marine biologist. Unfortunately, her dreams were shattered and buried when she became a victim of rape.
However, with resilience and strong determination, Ona continues to pursue her dreams relentlessly, even willing to work hard to fulfill her needs.
15. Tarling is Darling
Tarling is Darling delves into the world of dangdut, Indonesia's soulful folk music, which has a prominent presence in various regions, including Indramayu in West Java. Within the spectrum of dangdut, one of its distinctive variants is tarling, known for its sensual dancing and revealing attire.
The movie highlights two songwriters and music producers of tarling dangdut, Jaham and Ipung, who have been instrumental in launching the careers of many aspiring artists, especially young women seeking fame.
However, tarling, with its provocative dancing and attire, has faced opposition from religious scholars who find it inappropriate and violates Islamic principles.
Jaham is challenged to create an Islamic-themed tarling song and turn it into a means of da'wah. The movie follows Jaham on his journey to create his first Islamic song, with the help of a former erotic singer.
16. Behind the Refinery
Di Balik Kilang was awarded as the Best Documentary Film at the 2015 KPK Film Festival, standing out for several reasons. Produced by students of Telkom University's Broadcast Communication study program, this documentary offers an interesting narrative about the life of the people in Wonocolo.
Wonocolo, located in Surabaya City, East Java Province, has a high historical value as the largest oil mining area. Historically, the Dutch government established hundreds of oil mines in this area, and their management was entrusted to the local community.
In accordance with regulations set by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Indonesia, the ownership of these wells is prohibited, both by the community, the private sector, and the government. Unfortunately, many irresponsible parties take advantage of this situation by creating new wells clandestinely in various locations.
This illegal activity has been going on for a long time. In the documentary 'Di Balik Kilang', viewers are brought to trace the history and dive into the origins of this illegal oil mining practice. The documentary highlights the harmful consequences not only for the country but also for the surrounding communities, including the increased risk of workplace accidents faced by workers who do not have adequate safety guarantees.
17. Sepanjang Jalan Satu Arah
Sepanjang Jalan Satu Arah is a 16-minute short documentary with a straightforward narrative. Sepanjang Jalan Satu Arah tells the story of the different perspectives between a child and his mother. The mother encourages her child to vote for governor according to their religious beliefs.
Not only to her child, the mother also invites other family members to choose leaders in accordance with their beliefs. However, in the midst of confusion and disagreement with his mother, the son chose a different path. What choice does he make?
"Sepanjang Jalan Satu Arah" is Bani Nasution's debut film, which won a special award from the jury at the Sea Short Film Festival Kuala Lumpur. In addition, the film also received the Citra Cup for Best Short Documentary at the Indonesian Film Festival in 2017.
18. Sexy Killers
Sexy Killers is an Indonesian documentary film, which has created a buzz on Twitter. Produced by Watchdoc, the movie is an important watch for Indonesians as it raises critical issues that have been ignored by society and the government.
The documentary highlights the negative impacts of the coal industry in Indonesia, including its destructive impact on nature, climate balance, and the welfare of its citizens.
During its 1.5 hours, the documentary provides a comprehensive overview of coal mining in Kalimantan, tracing the process from excavation at the mine site to conversion into power plant fuel.
Initially, the development of these mines seemed to promise employment opportunities for the local population. However, as the power plant expanded, more and more agricultural land was sacrificed, causing small farmers to lose their livelihoods. The culmination of the power plant's waste exacerbated environmental damage and air pollution, leading to severe health problems among locals.
19. Negeri Dongeng
Climbing enthusiasts should not miss 'Negeri Dongeng'. The movie revolves around the journey of seven young Indonesian filmmakers who climbed the seven highest mountains in Indonesia.
Their conquests include Mount Carstensz in Papua, Mount Bukit Raya in Kalimantan, Mount Binaiya in Ambon, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Mount Semeru in Java, and Mount Latimojong in Sulawesi.
The production of 'Negeri Dongeng' took three years. Moreover, the movie is the result of the collaboration of seven cinematographers: Anggi Frisca, Teguh Rahmadani, Rivan Haggarai, Jogie KM Nadeak, Yohanes Pattiasina, and Wihana Erlangga.
The movie not only deepens our appreciation of Indonesia's diverse landscape, but also provides valuable lessons on the importance of teamwork and perseverance, as vividly depicted in their climbing journey.
20. Songbird: Burung Berkicau
"Songbird: Birds of Song" explores the thriving bird industry in Indonesia, a country rich in diverse bird species. As a result, activities such as hunting, capturing, and training birds have developed into lucrative ventures in the country.
Additionally, the movie also introduces viewers to the world of bird competitions, where winning can significantly increase the value of a bird.
The movie is about the journey of a young man named Agok, who enters the world of bird business under the guidance of Edi. Recognizing the challenges involved in training birds, Edi pins his hopes on Agok to carry on his dreams and aspirations in the bird industry.
These documentaries are Indonesia's finest offerings, offering compelling narratives and exploring interesting phenomena, some of which are controversial.
They have proven their worth by winning numerous awards, both locally and globally. Have you had the chance to watch any of these movies? If not, don't hesitate to set aside some time to watch them!