‘Parasite’ Producer Barunson E&A Boards Indonesian Musical Reboot of ‘What’s With Love?’

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As a movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the esteemed production company behind the Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” Barunson E&A, has officially hopped aboard as a co-investor for “Rangga & Cinta.” This exciting project is a musical reimagining of Indonesia’s cherished romance series, “What’s With Love?” or “Ada Apa Dengan Cinta?,” a title that resonates deeply with millions of hearts across the nation. Can’t wait to see what magic this collaboration will bring to the big screen!

The international sales agreement was finalized before the upcoming Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (Filmart), which takes place from March 17th to the 20th.

The remake delves back into the legendary tale that sparked a cultural craze across Indonesia, focusing on Cinta, a well-loved 17-year-old high school student whose name translates to “love” in Indonesian. As she develops feelings for Rangga, a reserved classmate, her close relationships start to unravel, leaving her torn between love and allegiance.

Released in 2002, the movie titled ‘What’s With Love?’ marked a resurgence in Indonesian young adult romance films following two decades of wane. It was the most-viewed local film that year and garnered around $10 million globally. The film’s triumph led to several adaptations such as a TV series (2003-2005), a YouTube mini-series (2014), a sequel film (2016), and a spin-off titled ‘Milly & Mamet: This Isn’t Love & Rangga’ (2018).

Director Riri Riza expressed joy at returning to the ‘What’s With Love?’ universe, having directed the sequel in 2016. He is thrilled about casting fresh new talent for ‘Rangga & Cinta.’ These young actors are incredibly talented, and he believes they will establish themselves as prominent figures in the future of Indonesian cinema and film industry through this movie.

Miles Films is back as the production company responsible for the project. Apart from the “What’s With Love?” franchise, this Indonesian studio that has garnered awards has also created a number of successful films, such as the “Sherina’s Adventure” series (2000 and 2023), “Glorious Days” (2019), “The Dreamer” (2009), and “The Rainbow Troops” (2008).

Mira Lesmana, head of Miles Films, expressed great excitement about the nationwide eagerness for the revival of ‘What’s With Love?’ in our upcoming movie ‘Rangga & Cinta’. She hopes that this cherished tale, which has earned the title of Indonesia’s favorite teen film, will also be warmly accepted by audiences around the world.

Barunson E&A has now sold four non-Korean films on an international scale since they initiated their global operations in October 2022. One of these films was the Vietnamese production “Don’t Cry, Butterfly”, which garnered two awards at the Venice Film Festival in 2024, following its support by Barunson E&A.

Yoonhee Choi, CEO of Barunson E&A, expressed excitement about being involved in the grand musical adaptation of ‘Rangga & Cinta’. “Indonesia’s storytelling heritage is profound, and this production isn’t merely a tale of adolescent affection,” she said. “It mirrors Indonesia’s historical and political context, while weaving in themes of family, camaraderie, and personal growth. We believe the universal, emotionally charged nature of this narrative will strike a chord with viewers worldwide.

The performance signifies Barunson E&A’s third financial backing for an Indonesian movie, thereby bolstering its influence within the rapidly growing Indonesian film sector.

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2025-03-10 14:47