Review of Indonesian comedy film Why Do You Love Me, an entertaining story of friendship and love

foto: imdb.com

Despite having a heavy theme, this film still packs it with a fresh sense of humor.

Brilio.net - The film Why Do You Love Me is one of the latest works in Indonesian cinema that successfully combines elements of comedy and drama with a fairly sensitive theme. Directed by Herwin Novianto, this film is adapted from a Belgian film entitled Hasta La Vista, which has received attention in various countries. With a duration of 84 minutes, this film shows the emotional journey of three disabled men who try to explore their first sexual experiences. Despite having a heavy theme, this film still packs it with a fresh humorous nuance.

The film stars talented young actors such as Adipati Dolken, Jefri Nichol, and Onadio Leonardo. The three of them managed to bring their characters well, giving depth to the story being raised. The funny and touching moments in this film create an interesting balance, making the audience not only laugh but also reflect on the meaning of life and love.

Why Do You Love Me follows the story of three friends: Baskara (Adipati Dolken), Danton (Jefri Nichol), and Miko (Onadio Leonardo). Baskara is a disabled person who uses a wheelchair due to nerve paralysis. Danton suffers from a brain tumor that paralyzes his lower body, while Miko is the only one of them who can walk, but is completely blind due to retinitis pigmentosa. The three of them have one common goal: to experience sexual experience for the first time.

They decide to travel from Jakarta to Surabaya, specifically to Gang Dolly, which is known as a prostitution center. On the journey, they face various challenges and funny situations that test their friendship. The film not only highlights their desire to experience love and intimacy, but also depicts their struggles and courage in facing the social stigma of disability.

- This film raises a theme that is rarely discussed in Indonesian films, namely the sexual experiences of people with disabilities. This provides a new perspective and opens up discussions about the rights of individuals with disabilities.

- The performances of Adipati Dolken, Jefri Nichol, and Onadio Leonardo are very impressive. They managed to build strong chemistry between their characters, so that the audience can feel deep emotions.

- The film manages to create a balance between funny and serious moments. The audience will laugh and reflect on life and love.

- The shooting and visualization in this film are quite creative, giving a different feel compared to other comedy films.

- Why Do You Love Me is an adaptation of the Belgian film Hasta La Vista, which has been remade in several other countries.
- The film premiered in Indonesian cinemas on June 28, 2023 and is also available on the Netflix streaming platform.
- The film is only 84 minutes long, but many critics felt that the story could have been deeper if it had been longer.
- TJ Ruth's acting as Endang's nanny also received praise for successfully stealing the attention amidst the performances of the main stars.
- Despite having adult themes, this film still presents a positive message about friendship and the courage to pursue dreams.

(brl/ola)