From the vibrant streets of Jakarta to the mystical landscapes of Java and Sumba, Indonesia films offer a cinematic journey like no other. In recent years, the Indonesian film industry has emerged as a powerhouse of creativity, storytelling, and cultural depth. Whether you’re seeking hard-hitting thrillers, poetic dramas, or myth-infused fantasies, this curated list of the 25 best Indonesia films is the ultimate guide for your next watchlist.
Discover the Magic of Indonesia Films
25. The Raid: Redemption (2011)
- Starring: Iko Uwais, Joe Taslim, Donny Alamsyah
- Director: Gareth Evans
- Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
- IMDb Rating: 7.6
- Runtime: 101 min
A groundbreaking action film that catapulted Indonesia to international fame, The Raid redefined martial arts cinema. Trapped in a high-rise controlled by criminals, a SWAT team must fight their way out—floor by floor. Its bone-crunching choreography and nonstop intensity turned it into a global cult hit. One of the most iconic Indonesia films ever made. What makes this film even more remarkable is its influence on international filmmakers and stunt choreography standards. It opened doors for its cast and crew to work on major Hollywood productions and inspired countless action sequences globally. With minimal dialogue and relentless action, it’s a masterclass in visual storytelling.
24. Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts (2017)
- Starring: Marsha Timothy, Egi Fedly, Dea Panendra
- Director: Mouly Surya
- Genre: Drama, Thriller, Western
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Runtime: 93 min
Blending feminist themes with a western aesthetic, this visually arresting film follows Marlina, a widow seeking justice in the arid hills of Sumba. Its slow-burn narrative and haunting style mark it as a standout in the canon of Indonesia films. The film is divided into four poetic “acts,” each building emotional intensity while reflecting on gender, justice, and isolation. Marsha Timothy’s stoic performance adds gravitas, while the dry, desolate landscapes mirror the emotional barrenness of its protagonist’s world. It’s as much a social critique as it is a piece of cinematic art.
23. Impetigore (2019)
- Starring: Tara Basro, Ario Bayu, Christine Hakim
- Director: Joko Anwar
- Genre: Horror, Mystery
- IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Runtime: 107 min
A spine-chilling tale of curses, folklore, and buried secrets. A woman returns to her ancestral village only to discover a horrifying truth. It cemented Joko Anwar’s reputation and brought Indonesia films to the forefront of global horror cinema. The film taps into deeply rooted fears tied to ancestral sins and the supernatural. Shot in remote forested areas with an eerie soundscape, it crafts a suspenseful, haunting atmosphere. The horror is slow-building but immensely satisfying, culminating in a finale that ties together the country’s folklore and contemporary anxieties.
22. Vengeance is Mine, All Others Pay Cash (2021)
- Starring: Marthino Lio, Ladya Cheryl, Sal Priadi
- Director: Edwin
- Genre: Action, Romance, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Runtime: 114 min
Set in 1980s Indonesia, this adaptation of Eka Kurniawan’s novel follows a fighter unable to feel lust. It challenges gender expectations while packing in grit, satire, and emotion. Bold and genre-defying, it’s among the most original Indonesia movies in years. The film plays like a blend of pulp fiction and arthouse storytelling, with exaggerated characters and an ironic tone. Yet beneath the bravado lies a sensitive exploration of masculinity and intimacy in a repressive society. It’s visually inventive and emotionally disarming.
21. Satria Dewa: Gatotkaca (2022)
- Starring: Rizky Nazar, Yasmin Napper, Omar Daniel
- Director: Hanung Bramantyo
- Genre: Action, Superhero, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Runtime: 129 min
The beginning of Indonesia’s own cinematic universe. Rooted in Javanese mythology, Gatotkaca brings ancient heroism to modern screens with a bold mix of action and culture. A landmark moment in the evolution of Indonesia movies. While the visual effects are ambitious, it’s the underlying mythology and character arcs that give it a distinct flavor. The film attempts to connect younger audiences to cultural roots through the superhero genre—a significant step in merging traditional storytelling with global film trends.
20. Before, Now & Then (Nana) (2022)
- Starring: Happy Salma, Laura Basuki
- Director: Kamila Andini
- Genre: Historical Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Runtime: 103 min
Nana, a woman reshaped by political loss and personal survival, silently navigates life under patriarchy. Elegant, poetic, and layered, this Berlinale-winning film is one of the most intimate Indonesia films of recent times. The story delicately explores the emotional restraint women were expected to maintain in the post-colonial period. Subtle performances, minimalist cinematography, and a haunting score create a deeply immersive experience. The film doesn’t just recount trauma—it studies the quiet endurance of women against a backdrop of systemic silence, making it a standout example of Indonesia’s narrative strength in world cinema.
19. Satan’s Slaves (2017)
- Starring: Tara Basro, Bront Palarae
- Director: Joko Anwar
- Genre: Horror
- IMDb Rating: 6.9
- Runtime: 107 min
A remake that surpasses the original. Combining Islamic mysticism and family tragedy, this terrifying ghost story revived Indonesia’s horror scene and became one of the highest-grossing Indonesia movies ever. Joko Anwar masterfully weaves domestic dread with supernatural terror, using confined spaces and subtle effects to amplify fear. The family dynamic grounds the horror in reality, making every scare feel personal. Beyond the frights, the film subtly critiques modern detachment from spiritual tradition, earning it recognition as a horror film with soul and cultural weight.
18. What They Don’t Talk About When They Talk About Love (2013)
- Starring: Anggun Priambodo, Ayushita Nugraha
- Director: Mouly Surya
- Genre: Romance, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Runtime: 104 min
Two visually impaired teens explore love in unconventional ways. A deeply human and atmospheric film that proves Indonesia films can be delicate, experimental, and emotionally profound. Surya brings an impressionistic style to this romantic tale, relying on soft lighting, sensory textures, and evocative soundscapes. The film redefines the way disability is portrayed in cinema—not as limitation, but as a different lens through which to experience love. Quiet yet emotionally potent, it is a triumph of minimalism and humanity.
17. Aruna & Her Palate (2018)
- Starring: Dian Sastrowardoyo, Nicholas Saputra
- Director: Edwin
- Genre: Drama, Food, Travel
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Runtime: 106 min
A food writer’s journey across Indonesia becomes a flavorful road trip of self-discovery, friendship, and romance. Rich in culinary and cultural details, this film is a celebration of Indonesia itself. As Aruna navigates through regional cuisines, each dish tells a story—not only of flavor but of social issues, health scares, and human connection. The dialogues are witty and genuine, the chemistry between characters palpable, and the visuals mouthwatering. It’s one of the rare Indonesia movies that seamlessly blends food cinema with emotional complexity.
16. 27 Steps of May (2018)
- Starring: Raihaanun, Lukman Sardi
- Director: Ravi Bharwani
- Genre: Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Runtime: 112 min
A rape survivor reclaims her voice in this quiet, poetic story of healing and dignity. Sensitive and artfully told, it showcases the empathetic strength of Indonesia films tackling trauma. May’s emotional isolation is conveyed through minimal dialogue, striking visuals, and metaphor-laden scenes that show her psychological journey. The presence of her father, filled with guilt and silent remorse, adds another layer of depth. It’s not just a film about survival—it’s a story of transformation, rendered with elegance and restraint.
15. Yuni (2021)
- Starring: Arawinda Kirana, Kevin Ardilova
- Director: Kamila Andini
- Genre: Coming-of-age, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Runtime: 95 min
Yuni is a smart, free-spirited teenage girl who dreams of attending university. But when multiple marriage proposals begin arriving, she faces societal pressure that threatens to derail her ambitions. The film explores the complex intersection of gender, tradition, and personal freedom in a conservative setting. What sets it apart from other Indonesia films is its poetic style and the authenticity of its performances. Yuni’s rebellion is quiet but powerful, echoing the voices of countless young women seeking to define their future. The film builds intimacy through close framing and a lyrical tone, making it a deeply emotional and socially resonant journey.
14. The Seen and Unseen (2017)
- Starring: Ni Kadek Thaly Titi Kasih
- Director: Kamila Andini
- Genre: Fantasy, Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.1
- Runtime: 86 min
In this visually striking meditation on grief, a young girl copes with the impending loss of her twin brother through a series of dreamlike visions. The story is told almost entirely through movement and atmosphere, drawing deeply from Balinese performance traditions. Few Indonesia movies approach storytelling with this level of abstraction and emotion. The film’s silence speaks louder than dialogue, offering audiences a mystical experience grounded in cultural symbolism. It reflects the inner life of children with rare depth and tenderness, offering a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting.
13. Filosofi Kopi (2015)
- Starring: Chicco Jerikho, Rio Dewanto
- Director: Angga Dwimas Sasongko
- Genre: Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.4
- Runtime: 117 min
Two old friends open a coffee shop to reconnect with their dreams and each other in this warm, heartfelt story. Based on Dewi Lestari’s short story, the film is about finding purpose, embracing change, and honoring heritage through something as simple as a cup of coffee. More than just another feel-good entry in Indonesia films, it captures the urban youth’s growing desire for authenticity and entrepreneurship. Its visuals are rich with artisan aesthetics, and its themes of identity and legacy strike a chord across generations.
12. Love for Sale (2018)
- Starring: Gading Marten, Della Dartyan
- Director: Andibachtiar Yusuf
- Genre: Romance, Comedy
- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Runtime: 104 min
A lonely bachelor accidentally hires a partner-for-rent who unexpectedly turns his life around in this witty and unexpectedly poignant romantic comedy. The chemistry between the leads, combined with sharp writing, transforms what could have been a formulaic film into something truly special. Among Indonesia movies, it stands out for its emotional intelligence and mature exploration of vulnerability. Beneath the comedic setup lies a tender critique of modern dating, emotional repression, and our deep need for connection.
11. A Copy of My Mind (2015)
- Starring: Tara Basro, Chicco Jerikho
- Director: Joko Anwar
- Genre: Romance, Political Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.2
- Runtime: 104 min
A beauty salon worker and a subtitle pirate fall in love amidst the noise and corruption of Jakarta’s political underworld. Their story unfolds with raw realism, capturing intimate human moments against the backdrop of unrest. The chemistry between the leads is electric, and the storytelling grounded in everyday life. What elevates it among Indonesia films is its ability to weave romance and social critique without sacrificing authenticity. With handheld camerawork and a naturalistic tone, it’s a love story rooted in grit and truth.
10. Blind Pig Who Wants to Fly (2008)
- Starring: Ladya Cheryl, Pong Harjatmo
- Director: Edwin
- Genre: Drama, Experimental
- IMDb Rating: 6.5
- Runtime: 77 min
A fragmented, surreal narrative reflecting on Chinese-Indonesian identity and alienation. Through disconnected vignettes, the film examines discrimination, desire, and disillusionment in post-Suharto Indonesia. It’s one of the boldest Indonesia films in form and content. Edwin’s use of silence, repetition, and absurdist humor pushes cinematic boundaries. While it’s not a conventional watch, the film speaks volumes through its discomfort. It’s a striking example of how personal trauma and national identity collide on screen, offering viewers a raw and often unsettling mirror of a society in transition.
9. Postcards from the Zoo (2012)
- Starring: Ladya Cheryl, Nicholas Saputra
- Director: Edwin
- Genre: Drama, Fantasy
- IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Runtime: 95 min
A lonely girl raised in Jakarta’s zoo drifts through a dreamy world of animals and human longing. Haunting, minimalist, and meditative, it’s an atmospheric journey that transcends plot. Among Indonesia movies, it stands out for its poetic visual language. The film doesn’t rely on traditional structure, but rather moves through feeling and mood. Every enclosure, every animal encounter becomes symbolic of isolation and curiosity. It’s a melancholic portrait of detachment, and of a life quietly observing rather than participating.
8. Buffalo Boys (2018)
- Starring: Ario Bayu, Yoshi Sudarso
- Director: Mike Wiluan
- Genre: Western, Action
- IMDb Rating: 5.8
- Runtime: 102 min
A Western with a Javanese twist. Two brothers return to Indonesia after exile to avenge their father’s murder during Dutch colonial rule. The film’s stunning visuals and high-octane action make it one of the most entertaining Indonesia films in recent memory. Wiluan blends Hollywood-style set pieces with Indonesian resistance lore, creating a kinetic tale that honors local history. Though it leans on genre tropes, its cultural context provides freshness and relevance. It’s a rare homegrown action epic with a heart rooted in national pride.
7. The Forbidden Door (2009)
- Starring: Fachry Albar, Marsha Timothy
- Director: Joko Anwar
- Genre: Horror, Thriller
- IMDb Rating: 6.7
- Runtime: 115 min
This psychological horror-thriller delves into the mind of a sculptor whose seemingly perfect life begins to unravel. It’s a cerebral, claustrophobic tale full of dark secrets and hallucinations. What separates it from typical Indonesia films is its unrelenting descent into psychological dread, reminiscent of Hitchcock and Cronenberg. The atmosphere is thick with dread, and the twists keep you questioning reality. It’s an intellectual and sensory rollercoaster that continues to haunt viewers long after the credits roll.
6. Opera Jawa (2006)
- Starring: Artika Sari Devi, Didi Petet
- Director: Garin Nugroho
- Genre: Musical, Drama, Art
- IMDb Rating: 6.8
- Runtime: 120 min
A retelling of the Ramayana through dance, music, and striking visual design. This is a true art film—vivid, symbolic, and steeped in Javanese tradition. It blends high art and folklore into a mesmerizing cinematic experience. Among Indonesia movies, Opera Jawa stands as a cultural milestone. Each frame is a moving painting, and the narrative unfolds like a stage performance. Themes of love, jealousy, and destiny are interwoven with rich artistic expression, making it one of the most visually ambitious films in the nation’s cinema history.
5. Lovely Man (2011)
- Starring: Donny Damara, Raihaanun
- Director: Teddy Soeriaatmadja
- Genre: Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Runtime: 76 min
A devout Muslim girl searches for her estranged father in Jakarta, only to find he’s a transgender woman working the streets. What follows is a deeply human encounter that challenges prejudice and redefines love. This quiet masterpiece has earned its place among essential Indonesia films for its raw, honest performances and sensitive direction. It peels back layers of religious tension, gender identity, and familial bonds without ever preaching. Donny Damara delivers one of the most emotionally resonant roles in Indonesian cinema history, making this an unforgettable and progressive film.
4. The Raid 2 (2014)
- Starring: Iko Uwais, Arifin Putra
- Director: Gareth Evans
- Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
- IMDb Rating: 7.9
- Runtime: 150 min
Bigger, bolder, and bloodier than its predecessor, The Raid 2 expands the gritty world introduced in the first film into a sprawling crime saga. With masterful fight choreography and a deeper narrative, it is arguably one of the greatest Indonesia films ever made. Evans crafts a noir epic that blends martial arts with mafia intrigue, featuring unforgettable sequences like the mud fight and car chase. The film elevates the genre with its layered storytelling, world-building, and unrelenting pace, proving that Indonesia can deliver action on a truly global scale.
3. A Woman from Java (Perempuan Berkalung Sorban) (2009)
- Starring: Revalina S. Temat, Oka Antara
- Director: Hanung Bramantyo
- Genre: Drama
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Runtime: 118 min
Anisa, a strong-willed woman born into a conservative Islamic boarding school, fights against patriarchy and societal expectations. This powerful drama critiques rigid religious traditions while advocating for women’s rights. It stands tall among impactful Indonesia movies, offering a rare feminist voice within the cultural context. The performances are heartfelt, and the film’s emotional core resonates universally. It’s not only a story of personal liberation but also a critique of systems that stifle individuality, especially among women in rural Indonesian society.
2. Memories of My Body (2018)
- Starring: Muhammad Khan, Raditya Evandra
- Director: Garin Nugroho
- Genre: Drama, Biographical
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Runtime: 106 min
Inspired by the life of lengger dancer Rianto, this lyrical drama explores queerness, masculinity, and the human body. Visually stunning and emotionally rich, it’s a poetic journey through repression, identity, and resilience. As one of the most controversial Indonesia films to date, it faced bans and protests, yet remains critically acclaimed. The dance sequences serve as metaphors for internal struggle and transcendence. Through fragmented storytelling and visceral symbolism, the film challenges conventional narratives and opens space for marginalized voices to be seen and heard.
1. Tjoet Nja’ Dhien (1988)
- Starring: Christine Hakim, Slamet Rahardjo
- Director: Eros Djarot
- Genre: Historical Drama
- IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Runtime: 120 min
The story of Indonesia’s national heroine who led resistance against Dutch colonialism in Aceh. Grand in scope and emotionally riveting, this award-winning film remains one of the most important Indonesia movies of all time. Christine Hakim’s fierce performance elevates the film to legendary status. It blends personal sacrifice with national struggle, capturing the spirit of a woman who defied empire. Rich in historical detail and cinematic elegance, it’s a patriotic and poetic landmark that every fan of world cinema should see.
Why Indonesia Films Deserve a Global Audience
From genre-defining action spectacles like The Raid to the introspective poetry of Yuni and Before, Now & Then, Indonesia films reveal a nation grappling with its past while boldly shaping its cinematic future. These stories aren’t just entertaining—they’re windows into culture, politics, gender, and tradition.
For readers who want to stay updated with Indonesia’s growing film movement, check out Good News from Indonesia and IDN Times. Both platforms regularly spotlight new voices and movements in Indonesian arts and entertainment.
Whether you’re a fan of arthouse narratives or pulse-pounding thrillers, Indonesia movies are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Add them to your watchlist and experience the diversity of Southeast Asia’s cinematic crown jewel.
