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Best Indonesian Movies to Watch for Foreigners
Best Indonesian Movies to Watch for Foreigners
If you’re in the mood for something fresh, the best Indonesian movies offer a thrilling mix of genres that will keep you hooked.
Indonesia’s film industry has quickly grown, providing everything from heart-pounding action to moving dramas.
These top films are perfect for anyone looking to discover something new.
1. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
- Genre: Action, thriller
- Directors: Gareth Evans
- Writers: Gareth Evans
- Cast: Iko Uwais, Ananda George, Ray Sahetapy
This intense action-packed film is a fan favorite, known for its heart-stopping fight sequences and martial arts choreography. A SWAT team becomes trapped in a rundown apartment building controlled by a ruthless drug lord.
It’s a must-watch for action lovers looking for non-stop thrills. Directed by Gareth Evans, The Raid received international acclaim and is considered one of the best action films of its time.
2. Laskar Pelangi (2008)
- Genre: Adventure, drama, family
- Directors: Riri Raza
- Writers: Salman Aristo, Andrea Hirata, Mira Lesmana
- Cast: Cut Mini Theo, Zulfanny, Ikranagara
Based on the true story of a group of impoverished school children in the 1970s, Laskar Pelangi (The Rainbow Troops) is an inspiring tale of resilience, hope, and friendship.
Set on the beautiful island of Belitung, the movie explores the importance of education and the unbreakable spirit of youth. It’s one of Indonesia’s most beloved films, blending drama with cultural insight.
3. Habibie & Ainun (2012)
- Genre: Romance, biographical drama
- Directors: Faozan Rizal
- Writers: B.J. HabibieI, fan Ismail, Gina S. Noer
- Cast: Reza Rahadian, Bunga Citra Lestari, Tio Pakusadewo
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
A romantic biographical drama, Habibie & Ainun tells the story of Indonesia’s third president, B.J. Habibie, and his deep love for his wife, Ainun. The film follows their journey through political turmoil, personal loss, and the bond that helped Habibie shape Indonesia’s future.
This emotional and beautifully shot film is perfect for those who enjoy heartfelt love stories.
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4. The Raid 2 (2014)
- Genre: Action, thriller
- Directors: Gareth Evans
- Writers: Gareth Evans
- Cast: Iko Uwais, Yayan Ruhian, Arifin Putra
- IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
A direct sequel to The Raid: Redemption, this action film takes the intensity even higher. After surviving the events of the first film, Officer Rama infiltrates Jakarta’s criminal underworld to take down a corrupt syndicate.
The movie’s action sequences are praised for their complexity and brutality, making it a top pick for action junkies.
5. Verses of Love (2008)
- Genre: Drama, Romance
- Directors: Hanung Bramantyo
- Writers: Salman Aristo, Habiburrahman El Shirazy, Gina S. Noer
- Cast: Fedi Nuril, Rianti Cartwright, Carissa Putri
- IMDb Rating: 6.9/10
Verses of Love explores complex relationships through the lens of Islamic values. The story is about a young man facing challenges with love, faith, and responsibility.
Directed by Hanung Bramantyo, this film is an emotional rollercoaster, showcasing the beauty of Indonesian culture and its deep-rooted spiritual themes.
6. Gie (2005)
- Genre: Docudrama, biography
- Directors: Riri Raza
- Writers: Riri Raza
- Cast: Nicholas Saputra, Jonathan Mulia, Thomas Nawilis
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Based on the life of the Indonesian activist Soe Hok Gie, Gie portrays his journey as a political figure during Indonesia’s tumultuous 1960s. It’s an insightful film that explores activism, personal struggle, and the fight for justice.
With a strong performance by Nicholas Saputra, this film is a powerful historical drama.
7. My Stupid Boss (2016)
- Cast: Bunga Citra Lestari, Reza Rahadian, Alex Abbad
- Genre: Comedy
- Directors: Upi Avianto
- Writers: Upi Avianto
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
A comedy that will leave you in stitches, My Stupid Boss tells the hilarious tale of a woman trying to manage the quirks of her difficult and often absurd boss.
Featuring great performances by Reza Rahadian and Bunga Citra Lestari, this film is perfect for those looking for laughs mixed with a bit of office drama.
8. 5 cm (2012)
- Genre: Adventure, drama, romance
- Directors: Rizal Mantovani
- Writers: Donny Dhirgantoro
- Cast: Herjunot Ali, Raline Shah, Fedi Nuril
- IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
5 cm is an adventure drama that follows five friends on a journey to climb Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java. Through breathtaking landscapes and meaningful interactions, the film delves into themes of friendship, ambition, and personal growth.
It’s a visually stunning movie that will inspire wanderlust and self-reflection.
9. Sang Pencerah (2010)
- Cast: Lukman Sardi, Zaskia Adya Mecca, Slamet Rahardjo
- Genre: Biography, drama, history
- Directors: Hanung Bramantyo
- Writers: Hanung Bramantyo
- IMDb Rating: 7.1/10
This film tells the inspiring story of K.H. Ahmad Dahlan, the founder of the Muhammadiyah movement in Indonesia. A significant figure in Indonesian history, Dahlan’s efforts to reform Islam in the country are brought to life in this biographical drama.
With a strong performance by Lukman Sardi, this movie is a must-watch for history buffs.
10. The Sinking of Van Der Wijck (2013)
- Genre: Drama, romance
- Directors: Sunil Soraya
- Writers: Donny Dhirgantoro, Buya Hamka, Riheam Junianti
- Cast: Herjunot Ali, Pevita Pearce, Reza Rahadian
- IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
A poignant love story set against the backdrop of Indonesia’s colonial past, The Sinking of Van Der Wijck tells the tale of Zainuddin, a man of mixed heritage who faces societal rejection.
The film explores themes of love, class, and identity, making it a rich and emotional watch for anyone interested in historical drama
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11. Joni's Promise (2005)
- Genre: Adventure, comedy, drama, romance
- Directors: Joko Anwar
- Writers: Joko Anwar
- Cast: Nicholas Saputra, Mariana Renata, Rachel Maryam Sayidina
- IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
A charming drama that mixes suspense with romance, Joni’s Promise tells the story of a film delivery man caught in a conspiracy involving a reel of film.
The entire city seems to work against him, but he remains determined to fulfill his promise. It’s a compelling film with a unique storyline.
12. Garuda di Dadaku (2009)
- Genre: Drama, sports
- Directors: Ifa Isfansyah
- Writers: Salman Aristo
- Cast: Emir Mahira, Aldo Tansani, Marsha Aruan
- IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
A heartwarming film about a 12-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a professional soccer player, Garuda di Dadaku explores themes of ambition, family, and determination. This film is a great choice for young audiences and sports enthusiasts.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: Some of the best Indonesian movies for foreigners include The Raid: Redemption, Laskar Pelangi, Habibie & Ainun, and The Sinking of Van Der Wijck.
A: Many popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube offer Indonesian movies with English subtitles.
A: Most Indonesian movies are in Bahasa Indonesia, but many are available with English subtitles, making them accessible to international audiences.
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Read what people say about Ubud Story Walks...
Ubud Story Walks is something different. It’s a fun, entertaining and refreshing way to delve into Ubud’s past. The knowledgeable guides place as much emphasis on how they tell a story as they do on what they’re sharing, which means all sorts of magical and mystifying details are revealed. I believe the best way to get to know a place is to walk its streets, which makes Ubud Story Walks one of the best ways to get to know Ubud.
Julia Winterflood
We had a fantastic time walking around the historical centre of Ubud! Even though we've been based in Bali for a few years, we'd never had an actual tour of some of Bali's most iconic landmarks and learning about the history was fascinating. Our guide was hilarious and full of information and it was a lovely and relaxing way to learn so much. The tour was early in the morning which was perfect timing as the temperature was still cool and we were able to witness the morning bustle of Ubud's famous markets. 10/10 would recommend!
Rahima Saikal
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