The Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) has announced 10 Asia-Pacific projects selected for its Future Project initiative, aimed at advancing independent films through development and co-production. Among the highlighted titles are an Australia-Indonesia romance, a migrant worker drama, and an Indonesian biopic featuring an Oscar-winning costume designer. The event runs from November 29 to December 1 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, as part of JAFF's 20th anniversary.
Overview
The JAFF Future Project serves as a development platform and co-production hub, supporting independent works toward completion and distribution. This year's selection includes 10 titles from the Asia-Pacific region, with filmmakers attending the JAFF Market at the Jogja Expo Center to connect with sales agents, financiers, and collaborators. The initiative underscores efforts to strengthen creative ties across countries, particularly between neighbors like Australia and Indonesia.
Highlighted Projects
Under the Banyan Moon: Directed and produced by Aaron Wilson through Left-Handed Productions, this cross-cultural romance follows Stella, a schoolteacher from Adelaide, on an impulsive trip to Bali after a breakup. She reconnects with past loves in Yogyakarta, forming an unexpected bond with Aditya. Wilson, whose debut 'Canopy' premiered at Toronto, draws from personal experiences: "This story comes from a deeply personal place... The idea of a romance that bridges Australia and Indonesia has grown out of my decades moving between Australia and Southeast Asia." Producer Michael McMahon emphasizes collaboration: "We are neighbours, yet our cinematic storytelling collaboration has remained limited. It’s time for that to shift."
A Life Full of Holes: Loeloe Hendra's drama, produced by Onomastika Films, explores the struggles of Indonesian migrant workers through 17-year-old Sula, who searches for her missing mother in Taiwan. Hendra, whose 'Tale of the Land' won the Fipresci Award at Busan, shares a personal connection: "I grew up without parents... This film is a voice for those who have long been silent." The producers note the urgency: "Of the 9.2 million migrant workers, nearly half are illegal, facing the risk of abuse, exploitation and the loss of their human rights."
Rose Pandanwangi: This Indonesia-Philippines co-production biopic, directed by Razka Robby Ertanto and produced by Summerland, chronicles seriosa singer Rose Pandanwangi's life amid post-war turmoil. Oscar-winning 'Wicked' costume designer Paul Tazewell has joined the team. Ertanto reflects: "Her voice pierced through time, but her story was left behind in history." Producer Kristine de Leon adds: "‘Rose Pandanwangi’ is more than a biopic... it is an intimate and layered portrait of a woman who refused to be silenced."
These projects highlight themes of cultural exchange, personal resilience, and historical narratives, fostering regional cinema growth.
