The year 2026 marks a historic milestone for Indonesian cinema as the industry continues to gain
significant recognition worldwide. According to research conducted by Viking Sunset Studios,
Indonesian films recorded a dramatic rise in international participation — appearing in 91
international film festivals across 36 countries, with 126 films showcased and 9 global funding
projects secured. This remarkable achievement resulted in 48 prestigious international awards,
spanning fiction, documentary, and short film categories. These numbers reflect not only growth but
a structural transformation in Indonesia’s position within the global film ecosystem.
Indonesia’s Rising Presence in International Film Festivals
The increasing visibility of Indonesian films at major international festivals demonstrates the
growing confidence and competitiveness of the industry. Government initiatives and institutional
support have played a key role in this progress. By facilitating access to global festivals, expanding
international networks, and supporting co-production initiatives, Indonesian filmmakers now have
stronger platforms to present their work to the world. As a result, Indonesian cinema is no longer
simply participating internationally — it is competing and winning.
Breakthrough Films Driving Global Recognition (2025)
The year 2025 was particularly transformative for Indonesian cinema. Pangku, directed by Reza
Rahadian, earned multiple international awards in Busan and the Philippines, while also winning
Best Film at the Indonesian Film Festival (FFI). Commercial blockbusters such as Jumbo and Agak
Laen: Menyala Pantiku! surpassed 10 million viewers across Southeast Asia and expanded their
reach internationally from Malaysia to Mexico.
Short Films, Documentaries, and Oscar Potential
Indonesia’s global achievements were not limited to mainstream feature films. Short films and
documentaries won dozens of international awards and positioned several projects as potential
contenders for the 2026 Academy Awards. Classic Indonesian films also received special
screenings in Rotterdam and Paris, reinforcing Indonesia’s cultural footprint in global cinema.
International Co-Productions and Global Funding Expansion
Strategic international collaborations have become a defining factor in Indonesia’s global rise. The
co-production film Renoir entered the Cannes Film Festival circuit, demonstrating Indonesia’s
increasing participation in high-level global partnerships. Filmmakers such as Kamila Andini and
Makbul Mubarak have secured global funding support.
What This Means for the Future of Indonesian Cinema
The growth of Indonesian cinema represents stronger production infrastructure, expanding global
partnerships, increasing investor confidence, and rising creative ambition. As Indonesian films gain
international attention, sustainable industry development and cross-border collaboration will define
the next phase of growth. At Viking Sunset Studios, we remain committed to supporting high-quality
productions across Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
