© Festival del film Locarno
I don't know if it's too late or nor to jump into discussion about thesocially relevant and well-executed biopic of activist Wiji Thukul, Istirahatlah Kata-kata (Solo, Solitude). The movie is not even featuredin local cinemas anymore today.
I'm not going to review this film because I can't I am not a movie critic.I just want to share how this film made me feel after watching it.
While some people are impressedwith the glimpse of life as an activist under the New Order regime, I was dragged more by its simple way to showcase the protagonists internal anxiety.
Thats one of the reasons why I love this movie. It gave us non-glorified scenes, unlike other similar themed movies that usually have predictable plot and over-the-top scenes. I mean, this movie couldve gone over sentimental with its choice of words, but instead it chose to put feelings into mundane dialogues and satires.
Some people might be disappointed at director Anggi Noen for not exploiting Wiji Thukuls misery and making it into a full-length drama. She didnt even use the story as a political statement. But for me, the film provides just enough information and more importantly, the human side of the well-known activist Wiji Thukul.
I saw Wiji as a regular person who was away from his family and tortured by his own solitude. I saw how he used his words as a tool to survive. I saw the emptiness and horror he had to live. I saw the agony.
I did not get to know Wiji and other characters complete story, but I am satisfied with what I get from the movie. The message is well conveyed and well received. It might not be the best movie, but I really am glad this movie dared to differ and brought something different.
Because, finally, I can finally feel something, not only see something from a movie.
(brl/red)
