Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival: Spotlighting Original IPs for Global Recognition

Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival promotes Indonesian storytelling

The Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) is taking significant steps to enhance the presence of Indonesian storytelling on the international stage. The festival is set to showcase a selection of 10 original intellectual properties (IPs) during its upcoming Content Market from November 29 to December 1, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of JAFF.

This initiative is supported by Indonesia’s Ministry of Creative Economy and aims to promote local content across various creative sectors.

Exploring the creative landscape

The Content Market aims to connect various sectors within the creative economy. It will showcase a diverse range of properties, including video games, comics, novels, animation, and digital content.

Each intellectual property has undergone thorough evaluation for its suitability for screen adaptation. This ensures that the stories not only have visual appeal but also possess commercial potential.

The power of storytelling

Teuku Riefky Harsya, Indonesia’s Minister of Creative Economy, highlighted the importance of storytelling in the nation’s creative sector.

He noted that, “Through platforms like the JAFF Content Market, we can effectively transition local narratives into creative products that resonate on a global scale.” These initiatives play a crucial role in positioning Indonesia as a center for original content creation.

Lineup of original intellectual properties

This year features an impressive array of works showcasing the diverse storytelling talents of Indonesian creators. Highlighting the selection is the engaging video game Amurva from Ninoi Kiling. In addition, several comic titles are included, such as Elang Hitam by Edwin Fernando Tranggono, Jemawa Yangti by M.

Shahriza Rijadi, and Journal of Terror by Sweta Kartika. Other notable entries encompass The Summoning by Iskandar Salim and World Without Sleep by Ferdian Feisal.

Expanding creative boundaries

The festival will feature a wide array of creative projects, including animated works like Meng from Monoma Films.

It will also present novels such as Sangkakala di Langit Andalusia by Hanum Salsabiela Rais and Tabi by Marchella FP. Additionally, digital content like Gloomy Sunday by Fanky Landerson will enhance the festival’s eclectic offerings. This diversity underscores the vast potential of Indonesian narratives to adapt across various formats.

Connecting creators with industry leaders

The JAFF Content Market serves as both a showcase and a platform for engagement. Sponsored by Amar Bank, the event will host curated pitching sessions and business meetings. These sessions aim to connect intellectual property creators with potential producers, investors, and distributors from across Asia, fostering collaboration that could lead to successful adaptations.

Linda Gozali, the market director of JAFF Market, stated that “Many of our nation’s best stories already exist in books, songs, and games. This platform allows them to gain new life through adaptations into films and series.” She aims to position Indonesia not only as a production destination but also as a rich source of original, adaptable content.

Building on past successes

This initiative builds on the momentum generated by last year’s JAFF Content Market. Three Indonesian intellectual properties—Bandits of Batavia, Locust, and Jitu—were selected for the Cannes Film Festival’s Spotlight Asia program. This connection between creators and industry leaders is crucial for the growth of Indonesian content on the global stage.

The Content Market festival, which runs until December 6, is generating excitement among attendees. There is a strong hope that these original intellectual properties will lead to increased international recognition for Indonesian creative talents.