Local filmmakers see Balinale as gateway to the Oscars
Denpasar (ANTARA) - Indonesian filmmakers are using the 19th Bali International Film Festival (Balinale) as a gateway to their dream of qualifying for the Oscars.
“This is one of Indonesia’s largest film festivals, particularly for Oscar qualification. With academics present, it offers a wide pathway for Indonesian filmmakers. No Indonesian film has qualified yet, so this is a huge opportunity,” said Mirza Nadlar Mazini, director of Holy Salt Film, in Denpasar on Monday.
Mirza, a student at Jakarta Institute of Arts (IKJ), and his team successfully passed the Balinale 2026 curation, making them among this year’s local filmmakers selected.
“Our lecturers emphasised the importance of distribution, so we decided to try. We didn’t expect to get in, but since this festival can qualify for the Oscars and the films here are prestigious, there’s hope for an Oscar nomination. However, we’re treating this first Balinale as a learning opportunity,” Mirza added.
The student’s short film depicts life in Jakarta, where many Muslims sell ruqyah salt at high prices while deceiving people.
According to Balinale Founder and Director Deborah Gabinetti, these stories rooted in everyday life are one of Indonesia’s unique traits that attract curators.
“Indonesian films come from deeply personal stories, not commercial aspects. They stem from the heart, with history and heritage embedded in the narratives, which captivates audiences by offering something different,” she said.
This year’s 19th Balinale features 94 films from 38 countries, including 26 by Indonesian filmmakers.
Gabinetti stated the international film festival will run from 1–7 June 2026 at Icon Bali Mall as the main screening venue and The Meru Sanur for festival programmes.
“This festival has significant economic impact for any destination. Our target is 8,000 visitors. We have a strong programme and exceptional films. It serves as a gathering space for filmmakers, audiences, industry players, communities, and international partners to celebrate stories that move, challenge, and inspire,” she added.