Joko Anwar's "Ghost in the Cell" receives enthusiastic reception at Berlinale 2026
Jakarta (ANTARA) - "Ghost in the Cell," directed by Joko Anwar, received an enthusiastic reception from audiences at its premiere screening at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale).
"Ghost in the Cell" was screened four times during the international film festival held in Berlin, Germany, from 13 to 22 February 2026.
According to a press release from the filmmakers received in Jakarta on Tuesday, tickets for all screenings of the film sold out.
Audiences laughed freely, screamed, and applauded whilst watching "Ghost in the Cell" at Berlinale 2026.
Joko Anwar explored supernatural horror elements to deliver something inescapable within an entertaining viewing experience through "Ghost in the Cell."
"We wanted to make a film that is truly entertaining. But when the film ends, there will be thoughts that stick in their minds about the situation of living in Indonesia," said the screenwriter and director.
"This is our most entertaining film to date, but it is also reflective," he added.
Producer Tia Hasibuan said that the story of "Ghost in the Cell" reflects the dynamics occurring in Indonesia.
"However, upon seeing the response of audiences from outside Indonesia at Berlinale, it turns out this satirical horror comedy also resonates with them," she said.
"We hope this positive reception continues when the film is released in Indonesia on 16 April 2026," she added.
"Ghost in the Cell" is the latest work by Joko Anwar, who late last year received the cultural honour of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French Government.
Previously, he directed "Pengepungan di Bukit Duri" (Siege at Bukit Duri), which won five Citra Awards at the 2025 Indonesian Film Festival and garnered three awards at the Tempo Film Choice Festival.
"Ghost in the Cell" was screened four times during the international film festival held in Berlin, Germany, from 13 to 22 February 2026.
According to a press release from the filmmakers received in Jakarta on Tuesday, tickets for all screenings of the film sold out.
Audiences laughed freely, screamed, and applauded whilst watching "Ghost in the Cell" at Berlinale 2026.
Joko Anwar explored supernatural horror elements to deliver something inescapable within an entertaining viewing experience through "Ghost in the Cell."
"We wanted to make a film that is truly entertaining. But when the film ends, there will be thoughts that stick in their minds about the situation of living in Indonesia," said the screenwriter and director.
"This is our most entertaining film to date, but it is also reflective," he added.
Producer Tia Hasibuan said that the story of "Ghost in the Cell" reflects the dynamics occurring in Indonesia.
"However, upon seeing the response of audiences from outside Indonesia at Berlinale, it turns out this satirical horror comedy also resonates with them," she said.
"We hope this positive reception continues when the film is released in Indonesia on 16 April 2026," she added.
"Ghost in the Cell" is the latest work by Joko Anwar, who late last year received the cultural honour of Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French Government.
Previously, he directed "Pengepungan di Bukit Duri" (Siege at Bukit Duri), which won five Citra Awards at the 2025 Indonesian Film Festival and garnered three awards at the Tempo Film Choice Festival.