This Earth of Mankind

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.

Bumi Manusia, adapted from Pramoedya Ananta Toer's celebrated novel, is a visually stunning and heartfelt portrayal of love, resilience, and identity against the harsh realities of colonial Indonesia. Directed by Hanung Bramantyo, the film captures the essence of a complex period, blending romance with social and political themes in a way that honors the source material's spirit.

Iqbaal Ramadhan impresses as Minke, portraying the young Javanese man with sensitivity as he struggles to define his identity amid colonial oppression and personal challenges. Mawar de Jongh, as Annelies, brings depth to a tragic character, and their chemistry adds warmth to the otherwise intense narrative. The film's cinematography beautifully showcases both the elegance and the struggles of early 20th-century Indonesia, making each scene feel authentic and immersive.

While Bumi Manusia succeeds in capturing the emotional essence of the story, it sometimes feels weighed down by its pacing, and certain elements may feel rushed for those familiar with the novel. However, for viewers who appreciate historical dramas with emotional depth, it's an evocative journey worth taking.

Bumi Manusia is a powerful adaptation that blends romance with historical and cultural identity, offering a moving portrayal of Indonesia's past. A must-watch for those who enjoy stories that explore love, resilience, and self-discovery.

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.

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.

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!!!!