Bumi Manusia

I don't think this movie got much coverage in The Netherlands at the time of its release, but it was mentioned recently in the context of annual Aug 15 commemorations (ending of ww2 in the Pacific). There's growing awareness of the suppressed and even invisible position of many njays, who mostly came from poorish, islamic rural communities. Only after 1910 Dutch law allowed mixed marriages and legalisation of their children. My greatgrandmother was a njay, and just seeing a story dedicated to that period, and all racial complexities in colonial daily live, makes this a worthwhile movie . Even though there are some strange turns in the plot and too much romantic drama..

I read the novel first so i would not misunderstood this well-known masterpiece since i found out it was Hanung as director. I can imagine Hanung always makes his movies from characterization to scoring a little too sinetron-ish. Shoot technique is mediocre. It didn't make sense when Mellema get mad to Ontosoroh when she found out the truth about Mellemas legal wife, the book told the situation the other way. Bupati B, Maiko, Robert Mellema were going too extra. The truth is bupati B never whipped Minke, Robert is not even that rude to Nyai Ontosoroh, Maiko is too evil here. Too many things going sinetron-ish. Wish Kamila Andini would have had her own version, i'm sorry Hanung.

### Headline

**Rating: 8/10**

**Suggestions:**

"Bumi Manusia," adapted from Pramoedya Ananta Toer's novel, beautifully captures the struggle of identity and colonialism in early 20th-century Indonesia. The cinematography is stunning, and the performances are heartfelt, particularly the lead characters, who embody the era's complexities.

To enhance the film, consider:

1. **Pacing:** Some sections feel drawn out; tightening the narrative could enhance engagement.

2. **Character Depth:** While the leads are well-developed, supporting characters could use more depth to enrich the story.

3. **Historical Context:** A clearer introduction to the historical backdrop could help audiences unfamiliar with the period.

Overall, it's a powerful film that evokes thought and emotion, deserving recognition for its artistry and relevance.

Its not as good as promoted, i do hope the story have some layer in it but no. The directing and story writing could be done better. As usual the actors in Indonesians movie looks asa stiff as robots and inhuman.

Finally a movie that shows real history of Dutch Indie, because in the Netherlands they always try to hide it and put colonialism in a positive light and blame everything on the Japanese. While the Dutch were not any better than the Germans. Taking away all the rights from the Natives, robbing, massacre entire villages and also slavery. This is what my family also have bin through and they had to fled to the Netherlands. I am Indo just like the lead actress. The only bad thing about this movie is the acting of the Dutch people. But other than that it's a good movie and it means a lot to us!!!!