'I long for more creative films'

After decades of hibernation, the Indonesian film industry has begun to show signs of life, led by a pack of young actors, directors and writers. In observance of National Film Day on March 30, The Jakarta Post asked residents for their views on local movies.

Ulisarmi, 24, an employee of a private company on Jl. Sudirman, South Jakarta. He lives in Setiabudi, also in South Jakarta.

I have enjoyed going to the cinema since I was in senior high school. Nearly all the films I watch are films from the West. I watch Indonesian films only after I am convinced by film critics that they are worth watching.

Currently, I am still watching a lot of films, but I no longer go to theaters. I prefer watching films on DVD in my room. I buy around 10 pirated DVDs within a week, but none of them are Indonesian films.

I don't go to movie theaters; not only because of their high ticket prices but also to avoid the serious traffic congestion in nearly all of the city's roads.

I don't know why I don't like Indonesian films, but most of my friends are also reluctant to watch them. But if there are good Indonesian films, I'll watch them. I hope film producers will be more creative when they make movies in the future.

Catur, 22, is a student of Trisakti University. He lives in Ciputat district, Tangerang.

I go to the cinema at least once a month. Usually, I watch movies with my girlfriend on weekends. I also watch CDs in my room. Nearly, all films I watch are movies from the West.

I also watch Indonesian films but only on television because I don't want to spend money on them; I am afraid I'll be disappointed.

About the poor quality of our films; this is common knowledge. Ask other people and they'll give you a similar answer.

I think our directors should be more innovative. If India and China can sell their films in other countries, why can't we?

--The Jakarta Post