MOVIE REVIEW
Yuni
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2024, 2024 VOD/digital release
Runtime: 1h 35m
Director(s): Kamila Andini
Writer(s): Kamila Andini, Prima Rusdi
Cast: Arawinda Kirana, Asmara Abigail, Sekar Sari, Marissa Anita, Kevin Ardilova
Language: Indonesian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premieres on VOD & digital on March 22, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Set in the enchanting yet restrictive village of Serang, Indonesia, YUNI vividly explores a young girl's fight against traditional expectations that seek to confine her. Kamila Andini crafts this tale with a caring touch, transforming YUNI into a spirited journey that intermixes themes of gender equality, education, and the relentless pursuit of personal freedom. Arawinda Kirana's defining role brings Yuni's indomitable spirit to life, serving as the heart of a story that refuses to be another coming-of-age drama. Her portrayal in the film shows her depth and offers a performance that is uniquely her own.

As we explore the film further, we encounter a tale of defiance beautifully framed by Teoh Gay Hian's stunning cinematography. Drenched in realism and poetic flair, it explores a young woman's determination to forge her path. Andini's narrative cleverly parallels rebellion and nuanced self-discovery, engaging viewers with its universal appeal and cinematic grace. While the traditional coming-of-age film offers hurdles that must be overcome, this story explores an obstacle that defines someone's life.

Pivotal relationships play a crucial role in Yuni's world, especially with characters like Mrs. Lies (Marissa Anita) and Mr. Damar (Dimas Aditya,) who represent the dual forces of support and pressure. These dynamics enrich the film's narrative, highlighting the complex influences shaping Yuni’s life choices. The strategic use of purple as a recurring motif goes beyond aesthetics, symbolizing the more profound quest for autonomy and identity at the film's core. With one of the most stunning poster designs I’ve seen, the film pulls you in with the purple theme from the very start and continues to show its importance throughout the film.

Supporting performances, notably from Kevin Ardilova as Yoga, deepen the exploration of love, gender, and societal norms, tackling the themes of human emotion and social critique. YUNI skillfully balances its critique of society with celebrating the individual's right to dream and choose, advocating for a future unfettered by gender norms. These themes are questioned with reason and passion.

YUNI's charm lies in its ability to present profound questions through a lens of elegance and simplicity, striking a perfect chord between thought-provoking content and enjoyable storytelling. Andini's direction and Kirana's incredible performance ensure the film's accessibility, with the breathtaking Indonesian landscapes serving as both a scenic backdrop and a silent narrator to Yuni's tale of courage and curiosity.

However, the film's real triumph is its storytelling prowess and cultural depth, inviting viewers to ask the questions they take for granted in their lives. YUNI speaks to a global audience, championing the timeless themes of identity and freedom of choice, making it more than just a story confined to its Indonesian setting.

YUNI is a testament to storytelling art, which blends personal tribulations with universal aspirations. It's a film that celebrates the human spirit, with Kirana's standout performance anchoring a narrative that is both inspiring and deeply human. YUNI is an essential watch for those who value the power of dreams and the significance of challenging societal norms, offering a beautifully shot, emotionally resonant cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll.

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[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]

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