Tokyo Asian Future Drama ‘Jani Be Good’ Probes Silence and Motherhood in a Chinese-Indonesian Family, Marking Ariani Darmawan’s Return
Indonesian filmmaker Ariani Darmawan stepped away from directing for years to raise a family. Her first feature, “Jani Be Good,” which is playing in the Tokyo International Film Festival’s Asian Future competition, turns that experience into a portrait of four women across three
Ariani Darmawan's return to filmmaking with "Jani Be Good" is significant not only because of the personal journey that led her back to the craft, but also due to the thoughtful exploration of themes that are both universally relatable and specifically relevant to her cultural background. The film's focus on the dynamics within a Chinese-Indonesian family, particularly the complex relationships between four women across generations, offers a nuanced look at the intersections of tradition, identity, and personal aspiration.
The fact that Darmawan took a break from directing to raise a family adds a layer of authenticity to her portrayal of motherhood and the silences that can exist within family relationships. Her experience informs the film's thoughtful pacing and its attention to the unspoken tensions and deep-seated emotions that can characterize family interactions. In a cinematic landscape where stories about family and identity are perennially resonant, "Jani Be Good" stands out for its considered approach to these themes.
As the film festival circuit continues to spotlight emerging and established talent, "Jani Be Good" is a title to watch for its potential to spark meaningful conversations about family, culture, and the challenges of navigating multiple identities. With Darmawan's return to filmmaking, audiences can look forward to seeing how her personal and professional experiences will continue to shape her work. The Tokyo International Film Festival's Asian Future competition is a fitting platform for "Jani Be Good," and it will be interesting to see how the film is received by international audiences and critics, and what future projects Darmawan may undertake.
Originally reported by variety.com. FilmNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.