'I long for more creative films'

'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