Indonesian cinema has been making a significant impact on the global film industry with the release of Timo Tjahjanto’s latest film, The Big 4. The film seamlessly blends action, humor, and heart, a quality often lacking in modern blockbusters. The story revolves around a group of assassins, the Big 4, who were once foster children adopted by Petrus, a kind-hearted man. His death draws them back into their old life, leading to a series of encounters with a ruthless gang and determined police officer, Dina.
Putri Marino shines as Dina, delivering a standout performance that adds depth and emotional resonance to the film. Abimana Aryasatya brings a sense of silliness to his role as Topan, the Big 4’s leader, while Marthino Lio convincingly captures the cockiness and hysteria of the villain, Antonio Sandoval. The action scenes, choreographed by Muhammad Irfan, are a knowing tribute to the martial arts films of Jackie Chan, with a refreshing lack of gratuitous violence against women.
The film’s setting, Bersi Island, is a beautiful and vibrant location, showcasing the stunning colors and beauty of Bali and Timor. Tjahjanto’s vision of Indonesia and Southeast Asia is refreshingly free from Western stereotypes. Instead of depicting people in violence and bloodshed, the film shows them living their daily lives, going fishing, and working on cars, highlighting the cultural sensitivity and attention to detail of the director.
A Still From Timo Tjahjanto’s The Big 4 (Photo: The Big 4)
The Big 4 is a standout in action cinema, a testament to the bold and innovative direction of Timo Tjahjanto. Indonesian cinema continues to evolve, and it’s clear that Tjahjanto and his peers are pushing the boundaries of the genre, creating films that are both violent and humorous, and poignantly human. With Netflix investing in Indonesian cinema, it’s exciting to think about the potential for more films like The Big 4, showcasing the talents of Indonesian filmmakers and the beauty of Southeast Asian culture.
As Indonesian cinema continues to grow and develop, it will be fascinating to see how Tjahjanto and his contemporaries continue to innovate and push the boundaries of their craft. Netflix’s involvement in Indonesian cinema is a significant vote of confidence in the country’s filmmaking talent, and it will be interesting to see which filmmakers and projects they will support in the future. With The Big 4 serving as a benchmark for the quality of Indonesian cinema, it’s clear that the country has a lot to offer in terms of original storytelling, talent, and cultural insight.
