Indonesia’s JAFF Market Sets Cannes Agenda With Film Slate, Global Partnerships

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The group representing the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) has made their way to the Cannes Film Festival, eager to present the growing artistic sectors of Indonesia to a worldwide audience.

To mark its 20-year milestone, JAFF’s marketplace, JAFF Market, is using this occasion to showcase a variety of Indonesian productions and establish collaborative ties with global partners.

I’m thrilled to share that I’m raving about “Pangku,” Reza Rahadian’s directorial debut, spearheading the Indonesian cinematic ensemble. This poignant coming-of-age drama unfolds amidst Indonesia’s 1998 economic crisis, offering a unique perspective on a significant historical event.

“Pangku” first graced the screen at JAFF Future Project 2024, where it was honored with the White Light Post-Production Award. Now, it’s set to captivate audiences in the ‘HAF Goes to Cannes’ program at Marché du Film.

At the JAFF Content Market 2024, three innovative intellectual property (IP) projects – “Locust” from Kosmik, founded by comic artists Sunny Gho of Marvel and DC fame, “Bandits of Batavia” by Bryan Valenza and his studio Beyondtopia, and “Jitu” from Caravan Studio under the leadership of illustrator Chris Lie who has collaborated with industry titans such as Sony, Konami, and Marvel Comics – will be showcased. These projects will later be highlighted at Marché du Film’s Spotlight Asia – Asian IP Adaptation program in 2024.

Three unique IP projects from Kosmik (founded by Sunny Gho, a comic artist who has worked for Marvel and DC), Beyondtopia (led by Bryan Valenza, an internationally recognized artist), and Caravan Studio (whose team has collaborated with entertainment giants like Sony, Konami, and Marvel Comics) will be presented at the JAFF Content Market 2024. Later, these projects will be featured in the Spotlight Asia – Asian IP Adaptation program at Marché du Film in 2024.

Ifa Isfansyah, director of JAFF Festival and commissioner of JAFF Market, expressed that Cannes provides a chance to showcase the vibrancy and prospects of Indonesia’s film industry expansion. It’s significant to witness several films and intellectual properties chosen by JAFF Market, such as ‘Pangku,’ ‘Locust,’ ‘Bandits of Batavia,’ and ‘Jitu,’ making their global debut at Cannes.

The JAFF Market is further strengthening its global connections by organizing significant collaborative events. On May 16, a networking gathering with the Netherlands Film Fund will happen at the SEE NL pavilion, following up on the co-production agreement inked between Indonesia and the Netherlands last year. The Adelaide Film Festival is scheduled to hold an interaction with Australian filmmakers on May 18, while JAFF Market is teaming up with influential Indonesian companies Visinema and Jagartha for networking functions aimed at linking them with international industry players on select dates.

2025 marks a significant milestone for me as a movie enthusiast – the return of the JAFF Market! For twenty years, JAFF has been a beacon for Asian cinema, and this year, they’re stepping it up a notch. Linda Gozali, the market director, shared that JAFF is coming back with renewed ambition, aiming to engage the entire film ecosystem. It’s not just about bringing together local and international filmmakers, producers, and industry players; it’s about creating a collaborative platform where we can connect, build relationships, and lay the groundwork for future co-productions and partnerships. I can hardly wait!

In 2024, Indonesia’s film industry experienced remarkable expansion, racking up more than 80 million cinema visits and holding onto a 65% share of the domestic box office. As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, JAFF Market will be held from November 29 to December 1, with the entire JAFF festival running from November 29 to December 6 in Yogyakarta. The aim is to encourage international collaboration and showcase Southeast Asia’s emerging storytellers.

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2025-05-13 14:32