Brilio.net - So far, East Indonesians have always been identified as a group of people who are tough, temperamental, and always involved in "fighting". It is not surprising that they are often associated with a life of thuggery, bodyguards, and guards of empty lands.
They are often seen as a society that relies on muscle rather than brain. It is natural that they are always relied on as debt collectors. But on the other hand, East Indonesians are also seen as a group of people who have artistic talents, skilled in singing and dancing.
This stereotype is what emerges in Kaka Boss a film by Imajinari. This family comedy film feels very thick with Eastern Indonesian nuances. Understandably, this film was directed by comedian Arie Kriting, a man born in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi. This is Arie's debut as a writer and director.
In terms of story, this film actually presents a simple story about a family. Narrating the sincere love of a father to his teenage daughter. A story that is very close to many viewers. Not a special story.
But with Arie's skill in concocting the story, this film becomes interesting with elements of the culture of the lives of the people of Eastern Indonesia that are mixed in a comedic and touching way that can bring tears. In other words, although this film has a comedy nuance, it also "contains onions".
In this film, a father, Ferdinand 'Kaka Boss' Omakare, played by Godfred Orindeod, a debt collector from East Indonesia who is feared in Jakarta, wants to prove that he can be the pride of his only daughter. Kaka Boss wants to do anything for his daughter, Angel (Glory Hillary). He wants Angel to be proud of her profession. Unfortunately, debt collectors in Angel's eyes are nothing more than thugs, not a profession to be proud of.
From here arose the desire of Kaka Boss to change professions to become a singer. The conflict began. Kaka Boss did not have the talent to sing like most people in East Indonesia. However, people around him, because they were afraid of disappointing him, were forced to praise Kaka Boss for having an amazing golden voice.
Later, Kaka Boss found out that he did not have the golden voice as he was touted. He was very angry and disappointed. His true nature as an East Indonesian came out. But in the end, he realized that to be his daughters pride, he did not have to be a singer. He had other talents that he could show to his daughter and make her proud.
Revealing another side of Eastern Indonesia
What is clear is that the film Kaka Boss reveals another side of Eastern Indonesia which has always been portrayed with sadness, misery and backwardness.
"So far, Eastern Indonesia has always been portrayed as a region with various sorrows, full of conflict, water shortages, schools far away, no adequate facilities. In essence, it is backward," said Arie in a press conference for the film Kaka Boss, at Epicentrum, Jakarta, Thursday (22/8).
Through Kaka Boss, Arie wants to give the audience a different picture to see Eastern Indonesia. Therefore, he wants to present a different option through this film. As an Easterner, I am tired of being used as a source of gratitude by people. I feel I need another option, he said.
In addition, this film also serves as a place for East Indonesian artists to express themselves. It is no wonder that this film mostly stars actors of East Indonesian descent. Arie said that "Kaka Boss" is a showcase for East Indonesian artists who have been underrepresented in Indonesian films.
Friends from Eastern Indonesia dont have many opportunities to act in films. Even if there are, their characters are not far from existing stereotypes. I hope Kaka Boss can be a showcase for Eastern Indonesian artists. Starting from acting, singing, dancing, and comedy, said Arie.
Meanwhile, the producer of Kaka Boss Ernest Prakasa entrusted the entire process to Arie Kriting. Because, this film started from his concerns. Imajinari seeks to provide a space that can amplify the voices of creators who have strong visions and stories.
"The story brought by Arie Kriting through 'Kaka Boss' is very strong. Bringing a story about an authentic East Indonesian family. Bringing diversity of representation in Indonesian cinema. Hopefully the audience can also relate to the family story in this film, and be entertained by the comedy," said Ernest.
Kaka Boss stars Godfred Orindeod, Glory Hillary, Mamat Alkatiri, Abdur Arsyad, Putri Nere, Ernest Prakasa, Nowela Mikhelia, Aurel Mayora, Chun Funky Papua, Elsa Japasal, Aurel Mayori, Bima Azriel, Reinold Lawalata, Teddy Adhitya, Ge Pamungkas, Priska Baru Sagu, and Adrian Mattheis. The film Kaka Boss will be shown simultaneously in Indonesian cinema networks starting August 29, 2024. Save the date!