Exploring Indonesia’s Future: The Upcoming Films of 2026 Ready to Make an Impact Locally and Globally

Indonesias cinematic landscape is set for a vibrant 2026, featuring a mix of literary adaptations, daring auteur projects, family blockbusters, genre-defining films, and highly anticipated franchise entries. The nations top talent, alongside regional collaborators, anchor a diverse line-up supported by an expanding network of producers and international partnerships. Variety, in collaboration with the JAFF Market, highlights 12 standout Indonesian projects expected to shape the industry next year.

Key Highlights

My Mother

Directed by Eddie Cahyono, this film explores the struggles of migrant workers. Centered on a brother and sister from a poor neighborhood near Semarang, the story unfolds after a single missing pair of shoes sparks a chain of challenges, secrecy, and resilience. A remake of Majid Majidis Iranian classic, the Indonesian version preserves the emotional journey of sibling devotion and hope.

Production Companies: Magma Entertainment, Komet Productions

Cast: Marthino Lio, Dayinta Melira, Clara Bernadeth, Derby Romero, Iskak Khivano, Barry Prima

The Most Mysterious Man

Expanding the Qodrat horror universe, the story follows two street performers whose tragic fate awakens a vengeful supernatural force rooted in folklore. With director Charles Gozali at the helm, this film is set to become a major addition to Indonesias growing horror repertoire.

Four Seasons in Java (Empat Musim Pertiwi)

This international co-production traces the story of Malasan, a woman newly released from prison, as she reconnects with her community and rebuilds her life. Director Andini explores themes of home, forgiveness, and the gradual reconstruction of personal identity, supported by a broad international production network.

Producers: Shanty Harmayn, Tanya Yuson, Aoura Lovenson

Putra

Putra, a 13-year-old with asthma, dreams of joining Indonesias national soccer team. Bullied for his weakness, he discovers a magical jersey that grants him extraordinary abilities. This animatedlive-action hybrid combines sports, magic, and personal growth, setting the stage for a new family-friendly franchise.

Production Companies: KAWI Animation, BASE Entertainment, Robot Playground Media

Prison Mayhem

Directed by Joko Anwar, this horror-comedy is set in Labuan Angsana prison. When an unseen entity begins killing inmates, rival gangs and corrupt guards must unite to survive. Backed by Korean studio Barunson E&A, the project represents one of the largest Indonesia-Korea collaborations to date.

Cast: Jerome Kurnia, Nadya Arina, Aghniny Haque

High-Flying Secrets

A sleek aviation thriller follows a charming pilot whose manipulative liaisons with flight attendants trigger scandal at 30,000 feet. Blending romance, psychological drama, and workplace tension, the film unveils the hidden power struggles behind commercial aviation.

Producers: Anggia Kharisma, Novia Puspa Sari

Na Willa

Based on the beloved Surabaya-set books, this story follows a six-year-old girl navigating school, accidents, and the challenge of maintaining her individuality. Director Ryan Adriandhy, known for Indonesias top-grossing film Jumbo, brings a sensitive family narrative to the screen.

Operation: Pesta Pora

A team of petty thieves attempts a final heist at Indonesias largest music festival, Pestapora. This comedic caper combines dynamic direction with mainstream appeal, featuring rising star Iqbaal Ramadhan.

Production Companies: Imajinari, Angin Segar, Boss Creator

Pelangi

Set in 2100, this live-action/CG hybrid follows Pelangi, the first human born on Mars, as she seeks a rare mineral to save Earths water supply. With robotics-driven characters and virtual production techniques, the film honors Indonesias pioneering astronaut heritage.

Production Companies: PAL8 Pictures, Visual Media Studio, Jagartha, Lynx Films, Brandlink

Memory of Silence

Adapted from Leila S. Chudoris acclaimed novel, this political drama traces a student activist in the 1990s and his sister years later, exploring resistance, memory, and the lingering impact of historical events on contemporary Indonesia.

Producers: Meiske Taurisia, Muhammad Zaidy

Modern Slumber

Edwins surreal arthouse film presents a world consumed by productivity, where humans sacrifice sleep, allowing a mysterious entity to inhabit their exhausted bodies. The project critiques modern labor culture through a hallucinatory narrative.

Suzanna Witchcraft (Suzzanna: Santet Dosa di Atas Dosa)

A reimagining of the iconic horror figure Suzanna, the film follows a woman cursed by a ruthless village leader who masters dark sorcery for revenge, only to confront unexpected love and moral choice. It revives one of Indonesias most enduring supernatural legends.

Production Company: Soraya Intercine Films

Cast: Luna Maya, Reza Rahadian, Clift Sangra, Iwa K, Adi Bing Slamet, Ence Bagus, Azis Gagap

Author: Sophia Brooks