A moving cinematic journey from Indonesia that captivates audiences with heartfelt storytelling, powerful performances, and global recognition

The Indonesian film Pangku, directed by Reza Rahadian, has achieved remarkable success on the international stage. For the first time, it won four awards simultaneously at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) 2025, which took place from September 17 to 26 in Busan, South Korea. This milestone marks a significant moment in Reza Rahadian’s directorial debut and establishes Pangku as a film that has earned wide recognition globally.

Pangku received four prestigious awards: the KB Vision Audience Award, the FIPRESCI Award, the Bishkek International Film Festival-Central Asia Cinema Award, and the Face of the Future Award. With these accomplishments, it became the most-awarded film at BIFF 2025. These honors highlight the strong appreciation from both the jury and the audience, while underscoring the film’s artistic quality and the relevance of its story.

The film follows the journey of Sartika, a young woman played by Claresta Taufan. Pregnant and determined to seek a better life for her unborn child, she decides to leave her hometown. Along the way, she meets Bu Maya, a coffee shop owner portrayed by Christine Hakim, whose kindness shapes Sartika’s path. Their meeting unfolds into a story of solidarity, sincerity, and the strength of women in overcoming life’s challenges. The cast also features Fedi Nuril, delivering a performance that adds emotional depth to the narrative.

Sartika’s character is brought to life with strong emotions, reflecting the tension between hope and reality that resonates with Indonesian social life. In addition to highlighting the unique kopi pangku tradition along the Pantura route, the film delivers meaningful messages about sacrifice and simplicity. Critics have praised Pangku for its ability to touch audiences and leave a lasting impression rarely found in similar works.

The success of Pangku at BIFF 2025 reinforces the growing influence of Indonesian cinema on the international stage. The KB Vision Audience Award was determined by audience votes in the Vision Asia program. The FIPRESCI Award recognized the film’s artistic excellence and innovation. The Bishkek International Film Festival-Central Asia Cinema Award reflected cross-border recognition through international festival collaboration, while the Face of the Future Award celebrated a work seen as representing the future of Asian cinema.

Produced by Gambar Gerak, a production house founded by Reza Rahadian and Arya Ibrahim, the film also involved Gita Fara as producer. The screenplay was co-written by Reza Rahadian and Felix K. Nesi, the result of close collaboration between cast and crew from the earliest stages of production.

After its success in Busan, Pangku will premiere in Indonesian theaters on November 6, 2025. With a powerful story, strong performances, and high production quality, the film offers more than entertainment. It stands as a testament to Indonesian creativity and its ability to compete proudly on the global stage.

photo source: instagram.com/naziracnoer, instagram.com/poplicist, instagram.com/armanfebryan, and instagram.com/gambargerakfilm

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