Bumi Manusia

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.

When I heard Hanung Bramantyo adapting Pramoedya Ananta Toer's classic literary work "Bumi Manusia", I was curious, before watching the film I took the time to read his book in preparation. The film trailer also looks promising. But after watching this film for the duration of the film 3 hours I think director of this movie still confuse to cut scenes from scenes in the book so it feels rough, Robert Mellema miscast and using contact lense doesn't look good either, the supporting cast of Westerners looks stiff. Some dialogue feels forced. For the details of the colonial era atmosphere such as steamship, steam train, I admit it is quite match for what i imagine from the book to tell the atmosphere of Indonesia at the end of the 19th century, although it still miss some details of fashion and hairstyles. The cast of Maiko, although its appearance was only briefly managed to steal the attention. The strength of this film's acting relies on the two main actors Minke (Iqbal) and Nyai Ontosoroh (Ina Febriyanti) who are also unable to save the quality of this film whose plot is loose here and there. Unfortunately. Hanung Bramantyo set main focus on the romantic drama scene and forget about the other values that wanted to be conveyed in "Bumi Manusia" to make it the most "Down-to-earth" novel that almost brought Pramoedya Ananta Toer to a noble prize.

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.

You read the book so what? The Earth of Mankind is a stunning movie. Excellent performances, great costumes and the soundtrack were just the best combination that lead to perfection of this brilliant movie which is based on book. Movies and Books are two completely different story, there is always - always- a disappointment in the end. So best is, to watch the movie, read the book. That is that. Show a little appreciation by supporting Indonesia film industry. Buy the ticket and watch! I would rate this film 8/10. There was Iwan Fals -the legend- voice on the backsound and it sums up everything. A- heart touching 3 hour movie.