Salam Indonesia Exclusive: Indonesian Films Shine at TIFF 2024 – The Shadow Strays and Crocodile Tears
This year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) saw the remarkable presence of two Indonesian films: Shadow Strays and Crocodile Tears. Both films captivated audiences with their unique storytelling, cultural depth, and emotional resonance, marking a significant milestone for Indonesian cinema on the global stage.
As the only Indonesian TV channel covering this prestigious event, Salam Indonesia had the honor of sitting down with the talented cast and one of the directors of both films for exclusive interviews. Our team dove deep into the creative processes, challenges, and inspirations that shaped these films, offering a behind-the-scenes look that our viewers won’t find anywhere else.
The Shadow Strays
Directed by Timo Tjahjanto, Shadow Strays takes viewers on an intense journey through the hidden struggles of a young assassin (Aurora Ribero) and her mentor (Hana Malasan). The film’s complex characters and evocative cinematography explore themes of isolation and identity, resonating with audiences from various backgrounds.
We had the opportunity to interview the film stars, Aurora Ribero and Hana Malasan, who shared their experiences of working on such a profound project. Aurora noted how the film’s emotional depth allowed her to connect with her character in a meaningful way. Hana expressed her pride in bringing an Indonesian story to TIFF, where audiences from around the world could experience the film’s universal themes.
During our interview, Timo Tjahjanto also discussed the inspiration behind the story and the significance of telling it through an Indonesian lens at TIFF. “It’s an honor to bring Indonesian stories to such a prestigious international platform. TIFF offers a unique opportunity for our voices to be heard globally,” Timo’s remarked.
Crocodile Tears
Directed by Tumpal Tampubolon, Crocodile Tears explores a darker, more visceral narrative, blending elements of mystery and folklore. The film delves into the haunting consequences of suppressed trauma and secrets hidden within rural Indonesian communities.
We spoke with actress Anita Marissa, who shared her thoughts on how the film reflects deep-rooted cultural themes in Indonesia. She explained, “The power of folklore is timeless, and we’re thrilled to share this piece of Indonesian heritage with an international audience.”
The other casts Yusuf Mahardika and Zulfa Maharani expressed their excitement about being featured at TIFF, emphasizing how the film blends traditional Indonesian elements with universal themes that resonate with audiences around the world.
A Proud Moment for Indonesian Cinema
Having these two films showcased at TIFF highlights the growing prominence of Indonesian cinema on the global stage. As the only Indonesian TV channel to cover their presence at TIFF, Salam Indonesia takes great pride in bringing these exclusive stories to our community. This coverage not only represents the films themselves but also symbolizes a step forward for Indonesian filmmakers, actors, and the entire creative industry as they continue to make waves internationally.
Stay tuned to Salam Indonesia for full coverage of the interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and more insights from TIFF!