A New Film Adaptation of a Beloved Novel
Indonesian director Yosep Anggi Noen, known for his work on “The Redemption of Sin,” is currently adapting Leila S. Chudori’s acclaimed novel “The Sea Speaks His Name” (Laut Bercerita) into a film. This adaptation brings the story to life with an ensemble cast that includes Reza Rahadian, Dian Sastrowardoyo, Yunita Siregar, Eva Celia, Christine Hakim, and Arswendy Beningswara.
The film, which was showcased at the JAFF Market, is in production through PAL8 Pictures in collaboration with VMS Studio, Jagartha, Lynx Films, and Brandlink. The narrative centers around the Wibisono family, particularly focusing on their eldest son, Biru Laut, who disappears during the 1990s. While the parents, Arya Wibisono and his wife, remain hopeful that their son is still alive, their daughter Asmara Jati becomes convinced that her brother is gone.
Historical Context and Themes
Set against the backdrop of Indonesia’s democracy movement in the 1990s, the story follows university student Biru Laut, whose dedication to justice leads him to join the Winatra group, a secret circle of activists who resist authoritarian rule through writing and public speaking. The film explores two perspectives: Laut’s own voice, marked by poetry and idealism, and his sister Asmara Jati’s later search for clues about her missing brother among other families waiting for answers.
Noen described the film as more than just a love story. “This is not a conventional love story – it is a narrative of young people holding onto their principles, to speak of their voices,” he said. He emphasized that resistance is timeless and relevant across generations.
The Source Material and Production Elements
The source material has been reprinted over 120 times, with approximately 700,000 copies sold and an expected readership of 1.4 million. The production will incorporate period-specific visual elements, such as demonstrations, mass movements, and underground meetings, set against popular music from the era. Fashion, communication technology, and entertainment icons will also be included to draw parallels with contemporary youth.
Noen highlighted the importance of fiction in a world where history is often buried under misinformation, propaganda, and digital echo chambers. “Fiction becomes essential,” he noted, describing the approach as extracting real events and reconstructing them to spark curiosity.
The Production Team and Collaborators
Behind the camera, the production team includes producer Gita Fara, co-scriptwriters Chudori and Noen, cinematographer Batara Goempar, production designer Ahmad Zulkarnaen, editor Dinda Amanda, costume designer Retno Ratih Damayanti, and makeup designer Aktris Handrajasa.
PAL8 Pictures, a production house under Tempo Media Group with over 50 years in the press industry, is making its feature debut with this project before moving forward with additional titles. The company aims to produce films that address societal issues, including stories with social or historical backgrounds.
Co-Producers and Their Contributions
Co-producers include VMS (Visual Media Studio), known for titles like “Pemandu Jenazah,” “Assalamualaikum Baitullah,” “Maryam: Janji dan Jiwa yang Terikat,” and “Penerbangan Terakhir.” Jagartha Group, recognized as a pioneer in film financing in Indonesia, has credits including “Mencuri Raden Saleh,” “Jatuh Cinta Seperti di Film-Film,” “Agak Laen,” and “Sore: Istri dari Masa Depan.” Lynx Films, founded in 2004, is known for collaborations with director Garin Nugroho on “Samsara,” with recent short films “Pulang” and “Galura Tropikalia Alive” selected as entries at this year’s Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival.
Release Plans
The production is targeting a third-quarter 2026 release. The film promises to be a powerful exploration of history, resistance, and the enduring strength of youth in the face of adversity.
