‘Ping Pong’ Serves Up High-Stakes Drama at JAFF Market

As a supporter of this heartwarming and compelling project titled “Ping Pong,” I am deeply moved by the authenticity and personal touch that the filmmaker Najam Yardo and producer Hannan Cinthya have brought to their storytelling. The narrative, which is inspired by Yardo’s own memories with his mother, resonates deeply with me as a fellow individual who has also experienced the complexities of family dynamics.

A previous table tennis champion, who got embroiled in match-fixing, seeks reconciliation and restoration via the sport, in a heartfelt family drama directed by up-and-coming filmmaker Najam Yardo. This compelling story will be showcased at the initial JAFF Market.

The movie titled “Kreasi Angkasa Semesta – Arungi Films,” directed by Hannan Cinthya, narrates the story of Emma, a 50-year-old woman grappling with mounting medical expenses for her son’s lymph node tuberculosis treatment and caring for her father suffering from Alzheimer’s. To cope, she sells her father’s house and gets involved in underground gambling games, eventually landing herself in prison. However, Emma receives a chance at redemption when offered a spot in an official table tennis competition.

For Yardo, the narrative originates from his own life experiences. “This tale mirrors my recollections and my journey towards comprehending and reconciling with my mother,” states the director. “It depicts a mother who assumes various roles in her life and a family adapting to survive in unusual circumstances.

Cinthya, the producer, resonated with the project on a personal level due to her own background. As she conversed with Najam and learned about his concept for ‘Ping Pong’, she felt an instinctive bond between their shared experiences. The narrative of a mother battling to care for a child with a severe health issue, even amidst a strained relationship, echoed a tale close to her heart.

The movie skillfully intertwines serious topics with humorous scenes, using wit, the unexpected, and lively characters to demonstrate their resilience, as observed by Yardo.

The project finds its way to the JAFF Market amidst a context where Indonesian independent cinema experiences a mix of prospects and obstacles. Cinthya highlights growing backing from local film communities and international collaboration opportunities, but also flags issues like restricted financing and promotional resources.

At the JAFF Market, Cinthya is seeking to establish possible partnerships and distribution channels for her film project. She views JAFF Market not just as a venue to display her work, but also as a chance to expand her viewpoint.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled about the debut of the JAFF Market happening from December 3rd to 5th, right alongside the Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival in the vibrant city of Yogyakarta (Jogja). This exciting event offers an innovative stage for up-and-coming Indonesian filmmakers, providing them with a precious opportunity to network with industry professionals.

“Ping Pong” is at the market’s Future Project platform.

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2024-12-05 04:47