Jefri Nichol Recommends the Indonesian Films That Inspire Him
The Indonesian actor shares the films that have shaped his perspective both on screen and off, from romantic comedies to haunting dramas
Jefri Nichol, who appeared on the cover of VMAN Southeast Asia’s Black Tie digital issue last November, is known for his work in Indonesian cinema, but he also has a keen eye for the films that have shaped him.
In my conversation with him last year, he shared a list of Indonesian movies that he recommends, offering a glimpse into the stories that have influenced his perspective both on and off screen.
Joni’s Promise (2005)
He began with Joni’s Promise, a romantic comedy set in Jakarta. The film follows a movie reel courier racing against time to deliver film canisters to theaters before screenings begin. The story captures the energy of the city with humor and charm, highlighting the poetry in everyday chaos.
The Sinking of Van der Wijk (2013)
Next on his list was The Sinking of Van der Wijk, a period drama about the doomed love between Zainuddin and Hayati. Their relationship is challenged by social class and circumstance, and the film is notable for its sweeping cinematography and emotional depth.
Satan’s Slaves (2017)
Nichol also recommended Satan’s Slaves, a horror film that focuses on atmosphere and tension rather than overt scares. The story follows a family confronting supernatural forces after the death of the matriarch. Its careful attention to sound and detail creates a sense of dread that stays with you.
Autobiography (2022)
He included Autobiography, a reflective film that explores a young man’s understanding of his parents’ pasts and his own identity. The movie is meditative and offers an introspective take on memory and family.
Ali Topan (2023)
Finally, he suggested Ali Topan, a classic of Indonesia’s New Wave cinema, in which he stars himself. The film follows a rebellious young man navigating the challenges of modern life while balancing tradition and personal desire. Nichol highlighted its honesty and its depiction of youthful restlessness.
From romantic adventures to supernatural horror, from introspective journeys to social realism, these films represent the breadth of Indonesian cinema and the stories that resonate with Jefri Nichol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Joni’s Promise (2005) is Nichol’s top romantic comedy recommendation. The film follows a Jakarta movie reel courier racing against time, capturing the energetic, humorous, and chaotic poetry of everyday city life.
The Sinking of Van der Wijk (2013) is his recommended period drama. This emotionally deep film follows the doomed love between Zainuddin and Hayati as social class barriers challenge their relationship.
Satan’s Slaves (2017) is Nichol’s chosen horror film. The story tracks a family confronting supernatural forces after their matriarch dies, relying on heavy atmosphere, sound design, and tension over cheap scares.
Autobiography (2022) is recommended for its meditative, introspective qualities. The reflective film explores memory and family identity through a young man discovering the realities of his parents’ complicated pasts.
Ali Topan (2023) features Jefri Nichol in the lead role. This New Wave classic depicts youthful restlessness, following a rebellious young man navigating modern life while balancing personal desire with tradition.
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