TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia’s emerging film studio, Pal8 Pictures, has announced its first full-length feature, Laut Bercerita, adapted from the acclaimed Indonesian novel of the same name. The film is slated for release in cinemas in 2026.
The story, widely recognized in Southeast Asia, explores themes of family, loss, and political unrest in the 1990s, and its cinematic adaptation aims to bring this compelling local narrative to a global audience. The announcement was made at JAFF Market in Yogyakarta on Monday, December 1, 2025.
Directed by Indonesian prolific filmmaker Yosep Anggi Noen, the drama was filmed in late 2025 across multiple locations in Central and West Java, including Semarang, Salatiga, and Sukabumi.
The screenplay, co-written by Leila S. Chudori and Yosep Anggi Noen, preserves the novel’s emotional depth while translating its story into a cinematic format that international viewers can engage with. Pal8 Pictures produces the film with support from VMS Studio, Jagartha Group, and Lynx Films.
A Story of Loss and Resilience
Laut Bercerita centers on the Wibisono family, whose eldest son, Biru Laut, disappears along with friends from a student discussion group, reportedly detained by unknown authorities.
His girlfriend, Ratih Anjani, and younger brother, Asmara Jati, continue to search for him years later, holding contrasting beliefs about his fate. The story intertwines personal grief with broader socio-political tension, giving the film both emotional and historical weight.
Budi Setyarso, director of Pal8 Pictures, highlighted the novel’s enduring relevance, noting that its themes of family, political repression, and resilience resonate beyond Indonesia.
“Laut Bercerita continues to inspire readers and now, through film, it can touch audiences worldwide,” he said.
Director Yosep Anggi Noen emphasized the challenge of translating such a rich narrative into film. “It is an honor to adapt this novel, balancing historical context with the emotional journeys of the characters,” he said, praising the professionalism and dedication of the production team.
The film was shot in authentic locations to capture the 1990s atmosphere, while meticulous research ensured the adaptation remains faithful to the novel.
Meet the Cast
Reza Rahadian, one of Indonesia’s most acclaimed actors known for his versatile roles in both domestic and international film festivals, stars as Biru Laut. Yunita Siregar takes on the role of his younger sibling, Asmara Jati, navigating the emotional journey of loss and resilience.
Veteran actors Christine Hakim and Arswendy Bening Swara portray Biru Laut’s parents, embodying the grief and hope of a family torn apart.
Meanwhile, Dian Sastrowardoyo, internationally recognized for her performances in films like Ada Apa dengan Cinta?, plays Kasih Kinanti, Biru Laut’s mentor, bringing depth and compassion to the role, and Eva Celia portrays his determined girlfriend, Ratih Anjani.
Reflecting on the film, Reza Rahadian said, “When loss stretches as vast as the ocean, it deserves to be felt and visualized on screen.” Yunita Siregar added, “Through Asmara Jati, I learned to portray grief with subtlety and strength, conveying a universal sense of human resilience.”
Dian Sastrowardoyo described taking on the role of Kasih Kinanti as a dream come true, emphasizing the character’s warmth and guidance, qualities that resonate with audiences beyond Indonesia.
From Page to Screen: The Novel’s Legacy
Since its release in 2017, Laut Bercerita has captured the imagination of readers across generations. Translated into English in 2020 as The Sea Speaks His Name by John McGlynn, the novel also won the SEA Write Award that year.
With 124 total prints including special editions, the story’s reach has extended far beyond Indonesia, appealing to international audiences interested in Southeast Asian literature and history.
A subsidiary of Tempo Media Group, Pal8 Pictures leverages over 50 years of media experience to produce films tackling social, cultural, and historical issues.
With Laut Bercerita, the studio seeks to present narratives that resonate globally while remaining rooted in Indonesian identity, marking its debut as a full-length feature producer.
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