JustUpdateOnline.com – SHANGHAI, The Indonesian film industry has achieved a significant milestone on the global stage as four domestic productions were featured at the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), held from June 20 to 23, 2026. Leading the delegation is a poignant family drama that has secured a prestigious spot in the festival’s primary competitive category.
A Historic Nomination for ‘My Own Last Supper’
The spotlight of the festival focused on My Own Last Supper (MOLS), directed by Ismail Basbeth. The film earned a nomination for the Golden Goblet Award in the Main Competition, which is the most distinguished category at SIFF. Out of numerous global entries, MOLS was selected as one of only 12 films to hold its world premiere within this top-tier competition.
The narrative follows a 76-year-old widower who gathers his children for what he describes as his "final banquet." Through the lens of a Chinese-Indonesian family, the movie traverses several decades—from the 1960s to 2018—exploring complex family dynamics and the profound meaning of a life well-lived.
Strong Public Interest and Cultural Diplomacy
During a press session in Shanghai, Ismail Basbeth shared his appreciation for the festival’s hospitality. He noted that he hopes the film serves as a bridge to deepen the relationship between China and Indonesia. This sentiment was shared by producer Lyza Anggraheni and lead actress Olivia Irawan Chen, the latter of whom highlighted the importance of portraying the authentic daily lives of the Chinese-Indonesian community.
Public enthusiasm for the film was palpable. Since tickets went on sale in early June, several screenings of My Own Last Supper were reported as completely sold out, demonstrating a high level of interest from the Shanghai audience in Indonesian storytelling.
Broad Representation Across Genres
Beyond the main competition, Indonesia made its mark in other categories. The animated feature Garuda di Dadaku, directed by Ronny Gani, also received a Golden Goblet Award nomination in the animation category. Other notable Indonesian titles screened during the event included Yuni and JUMBO.
The nation’s influence at the festival was further cemented by the involvement of acclaimed director and producer Kamila Andini, who served as a member of the jury for the Asian New Talent category.
Boosting the Creative Economy
Bambang Wibawarta, Secretary General of the Ministry of Culture, remarked that the international acclaim for these films is a testament to the rapid growth of Indonesia’s movie industry. He emphasized that local stories, when told with authenticity and high production value, have the power to captivate global audiences.
Echoing this view, Berlianto Situngkir, the Indonesian Consul General in Shanghai, stated that film is a powerful medium for cultural diplomacy. He added that such international exposure not only strengthens the national identity abroad but also creates new economic opportunities within the creative sector. To further this goal, the Indonesian delegation hosted an "Indonesia Film Talk" at the SIFF Market to encourage international collaboration and expand market access for the country’s filmmakers.
