Celebrating Bung Karno Month with 'Ghost in the Cell' Screening, Once: The Importance of Criticality in Art Spaces
Once Mekel, a member of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) and Head of the National Culture Agency (BKN) for the PDI-P party, emphasised the importance of expression spaces and critical perspectives in cinematographic works. He made these remarks during a screening of Joko Anwar’s film ‘Ghost in the Cell’ at Metropole XXI, Megaria Complex, Central Jakarta, on Sunday, 7 June 2026, organised by Kulturanesia as part of the Bung Karno Month commemorations.
He explained the reasoning behind selecting one of Joko Anwar’s best works, noting two primary objectives. Firstly, as a cultural organisation, the BKN through Kulturanesia aims to advocate for and provide tangible support to Indonesian cinema. Secondly, the event highlights the importance of freedom of expression, which is considered vital for artists. “This film possesses strength beyond its excellent cinematography, script, and acting; it also contains critical spaces that we can observe,” he stated.
Through this screening, Once expressed his desire to ignite the creative spirit of the younger generation, encouraging them to interpret and continue the artistic movement in the future. “The goal is to provide inspiration. As I have said, Indonesian film is becoming increasingly great; I hope it continues to advance, and that future generations participate in supporting and carrying forward this flame of spirit.”
Aming, one of the cast members of ‘Ghost in the Cell’, expressed his appreciation for the film’s selection as part of the Bung Karnative Month celebrations, viewing it as evidence of real support for national works.
Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno, who also attended, praised the achievements of the film starring Aming, noting its international market penetration. “Based on data, since its release on 16 April, it has reached almost 4 million viewers. Furthermore, it has achieved international success, with distribution rights sold to 148 countries. This is an extraordinary achievement that makes Indonesia an anomaly,” said Rano.
Rano also linked Bung Karno’s views on art and film, explaining that the founding father did not view them merely as entertainment. “He once created a ‘tonil’ (theatre) during his exile in Ende, signifying a strong correlation between art, particularly film, and culture.”
Krisdayanti also commended the initiative by the BKN PDI-P and Kulturanesia in promoting Bung Karno’s ‘Trisakti’ principles, specifically regarding national identity through culture, via this screening event. She also congratulated the film crew on their success in reaching 148 countries.