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Continuing its run of slate launches globally, Netflix unveiled new Indonesian originals premiering on its platform this year.

The streamer is working on its first collaboration with director and comedian Ernest Prakasa, titled The Actor (Lupa Daratan). The comedy-drama film is about an egocentric actor who is on the cusp of landing the lead role in a prestige biopic, but suddenly finds himself stripped of his acting abilities. The film stars Vino G. Bastian, Agus Kuncoro and Dea Panendra.

Netflix will also launch its first zombie film from Indonesia, The Elixir, from accomplished horror director Kimo Stamboel. Previously announced with the working title of Abadi Nan Jaya, the film tells the story of a potion that ends up triggering a zombie outbreak due to the ambition of a herbal medicine company’s owner. The Elixir stars Donny Damara, Mikha Tambayong, Eva Celia, Dimas Anggara, Kiki Narendra and Marthino Lio.

The...

by Tiara Purnomo

“Missing Home” (or “Ngeri Ngeri Sedap”) is an Indonesian dramedy about a Batak family, a traditional ethnic group residing in Sumatra, Indonesia. Pak Domu, Mak Domu, and their seemingly harmonious family are regarded as reputable by everyone in their humble village in Toba, North Sumatra. But, behind the facade, the couple struggles to keep their family’s honor and relationship afloat.

Where to watch

Right at the start, we are introduced to Sarma, their daughter, and their three estranged sons: Domu who is arguing with his father over his plan to marry a Sundanese girl, Gabe who is disappointed over his father’s disapproval of his career choice, and Sahat who chooses to live away from his parents. When an upcoming traditional event approaches, Pak Domu and Mak Domu must convince their sons to visit home by creating a big crisis to get the family’s attention: divorce.

"I hope we can be together again. And hopefully soon." Netflix has unveiled a new trailer for an Indonesian indie comedy titled Ali & Ratu Ratu Queens, which is the final release title after switching between Ali & The Queens, or Ratu Ratu Queens. After his father's passing, a teenager from Indonesia sets out for New York City in search of his estranged mother and soon finds love and connection in unexpected places. He discovers that there are many different ways to finding the real meaning of family. The film stars Iqbaal Ramadhan as Ali, along with Nirina Zubir, Tika Panggabean, Welas Asri, Happy Salma, Marissa Anita, and Aurora Ribero. This looks charming and amusing, and I dig all the little hand-drawn touches. Another story of leaving your home country and then reconnecting in unexpected ways. This is worth a look. Here's the first official trailer (+ poster) for Lucky Kuswandi's Ali & Ratu Ratu Queens,...