These documentaries about Indonesia show a land of extraordinary diversity, blending vibrant cultures, lush landscapes, and a complex history.
From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the pristine beaches of Bali and the rich biodiversity of Raja Ampat, Indonesia offers a tapestry of experiences.
Documentaries about Indonesia delve into its multifaceted aspects, shedding light on historical events, cultural traditions, environmental wonders, and the challenges its people face.
Documentaries About Indonesia
Whether exploring the aftermath of political upheavals, the coexistence of tradition and modernity, or the mesmerizing natural beauty that defines the nation, these documentaries provide a captivating lens through which to glimpse the many facets of Indonesia’s dynamic tapestry.
On a personal note, I have spent just over 1 year travelling around to different parts of the country over the past 25 years and it’s one of my favourite countries in the world to travel.
The Act of Killing (2012)
The Act of Killing is a groundbreaking and chilling documentary film that takes a unique approach to exploring the Indonesian mass killings of 1965–66, a dark period in the country’s history where paramilitary groups executed suspected communists and leftists.
Instead of presenting a conventional historical account, Oppenheimer invites former Indonesian death squad leaders, who were responsible for the killings, to reenact their actions in the style of various film genres.
The documentary unfolds as these perpetrators, boasting about their deeds, participate in the recreation of scenes from the massacres, often incorporating elements of Hollywood gangster films, musicals, and Westerns.
This surreal and disturbing approach allows you to witness not only the brutal events of the past but also the perpetrators’ perspectives and unapologetic attitudes.
Through this unprecedented method, “The Act of Killing” offers a haunting examination of the nature of power, impunity, and the human capacity for rationalization. It also explores the enduring impact of the mass killings on contemporary Indonesian society.
This is easily one of the best documentaries about Indonesia that shows one of the darkest chapters in the country’s history.
The Look of Silence (2014)
The Look of Silence is a companion documentary to “The Act of Killing,” directed by Joshua Oppenheimer. This powerful and emotionally charged film provides a different perspective on the Indonesian mass killings of 1965–66. While “The Act of Killing” focuses on the perpetrators, “The Look of Silence” follows Adi Rukun, an optometrist whose brother was a victim of the massacres.
Adi, driven by a desire to understand the truth and seek justice for his family, confronts the men who were responsible for his brother’s death. The documentary captures these encounters, where Adi, with remarkable composure, interviews the perpetrators while conducting eye exams.
The title “The Look of Silence” refers to Adi’s calm yet penetrating gaze as he confronts those who played a role in the tragedy. The film provides a deeply personal and intimate exploration of the impact of the killings on individual families and the collective memory of the nation.
It also raises profound questions about silence, complicity, and the consequences of confronting a painful past. Together with “The Act of Killing,” these documentaries form a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of Indonesia’s complex history.
Ring of Fire: An Indonesia Odyssey (1988)
Ring of Fire: An Indonesia Odyssey is a documentary series that explores Indonesia’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and natural phenomena. It was released in 1988 and produced by Lorne and Lawrence Blair, who spent years travelling and living in Indonesia. The series consists of five episodes, each focusing on different aspects of the country:
- Episode 1 – “The Arrival”: Introduces the Blair brothers’ journey to Indonesia.
- Episode 2 – “Fire Mountains of Indonesia”: Explores the country’s volcanic landscapes, including the notorious Mount Krakatoa.
- Episode 3 – “Java: Feast of the Gods”: Delves into the cultural richness of Java, the most populous island in Indonesia.
- Episode 4 – “Bali: Paradise in Peril”: Examines the beauty and challenges faced by the island of Bali.
- Episode 5 – “East of Krakatoa”: Explores the eastern part of Indonesia, including Flores and the Komodo Islands.
Ring of Fire: An Indonesia Odyssey is known for its stunning cinematography and immersive portrayal of Indonesia’s natural wonders and cultural diversity.
It provides a comprehensive look at the archipelago, capturing both its breathtaking landscapes and the unique traditions of its people making it one of the best documentaries about Indonesia.
Wild Indonesia (1999)
Wild Indonesia is a documentary series that explores the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Indonesia, showcasing its diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and landscapes. Each episode focuses on different regions and aspects of the country’s natural wonders.
Common themes covered in these nature documentaries about Indonesia include its tropical rainforests, unique animal species (such as orangutans and Komodo dragons), coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes.
Out of all these documentaries about Indonesia, this is the best one to watch for the wildlife and nature of the country.
Tales of The Waria (2011)
Tales of the Wari is a documentary film directed by Kathy Huang. The term “Waria” is a combination of the Indonesian words “wanita” (woman) and “pria” (man), and it refers to individuals who were assigned male at birth but live and identify as women in Indonesia.
The documentary explores the lives of Waria in Indonesia, shedding light on their experiences, challenges, and the complex social and cultural context in which they exist. It delves into issues such as discrimination, marginalization, and the struggle for acceptance and understanding.
The film specifically focuses on a community of Waria in Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. Through personal stories and interviews, “Tales of the Waria” provides a glimpse into the lives of these individuals, examining the intersection of gender identity, religion, and societal expectations.
Position Among The Stars (2010)
Position Among the Stars is the final instalment of a trilogy that includes “The Eye of the Day” (2001) and “Shape of the Moon” (2004). The film was released in 2010 and explores the lives of a family living in a Jakarta slum.
The documentary is known for its intimate portrayal of the Sjamsuddin family over the course of several years, providing insights into their struggles, dreams, and the impact of societal changes on their lives.
This documentary about Indonesia received critical acclaim for its cinematography and the director’s ability to capture the complexity of life in Jakarta.
Jalanan (2013)
Jalanan translates to “Streets” in English, and the film offers a unique perspective on the lives of street musicians in Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital. The documentary follows the daily struggles, dreams, and challenges faced by three street musicians – Boni, Titi, and Ho – as they navigate the vibrant yet harsh realities of Jakarta’s streets.
The film delves into the personal stories of these musicians, exploring their backgrounds, aspirations, and the hardships they encounter while making a living through their music.
Through the lens of these individuals, “Jalanan” provides a window into the broader issues of poverty, inequality, and the pursuit of artistic expression in a rapidly changing urban landscape.
It not only highlights the struggles of the characters but also serves as a commentary on the social and economic challenges faced by many in Jakarta. The documentary offers a poignant exploration of the power of music as a means of self-expression and survival in the face of adversity.
This is a great documentary about Indonesia to watch from some of the musical scene in Jakarta and the lives of the musicians.
Indonesia: Diversity Under Threat
Indonesia: Diversity Under Threat is a documentary that shows that there are increasing indications that Islamists are gaining more influence in the most populous Muslim country in the world. Indonesia is considered a model state for diversity and tolerance, but that is now coming under threat.
Far more Muslims live in Indonesia than in the Middle East. The archipelago is made up of more than 17,000 islands and is home to 270 million people. Following the end of the brutal Suharto dictatorship in 1998, Indonesia became a model for a democratic Muslim-majority state.
But in recent years, Islamist groups have gained influence. The report begins in Aceh. It is only here, in the northernmost province of the island of Sumatra, that a rigid interpretation of Islamic Sharia law applies – including public floggings. The reasons for the humiliating punishments are manifold: sex before or outside marriage, alcohol consumption or homosexuality.
A growing tendency towards a more conservative interpretation of Islam is also noticeable in other parts of secular Indonesia. More women are wearing headscarves in public places. Members of minority groups feel marginalized.
Inside Indonesia’s Move To New Capital Nusantara
Indonesia is embarking on an ambitious 32 billion USD plan to relocate its capital from Jakarta to Nusantara, a purpose-built city on Kalimantan. With exactly one year until its inauguration date, there are concerns that the city’s construction is behind schedule.
Will Nusantara be ready for the big move? Will the new capital be physically able to accommodate the influx of people? Are the local, indigenous tribes prepared to integrate with Indonesians of other ethnicities? Is Nusantara able to achieve its grand green targets? And most importantly, will it succeed in alleviating the population pressures on Jakarta?
Why Indonesian Waters Are the Most Dangerous in the World
The Indonesian government is striving to combat illegal fishing, which is very damaging to the environment. In this region of South-East Asia, one in four fish is taken without official approval.
Indonesia
These documentaries about Indonesia offer a range of perspectives on the country, from its political history to its cultural and environmental diversity.
For more on Indonesia have a look at the 10 best books about Bali.
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