Entertainment news and discussion on TalkFuse.
‘The Invisible Guest’ Remake Director Danial Rifki on Suharto-Era Fear and Why His New Thriller Is About ‘How to Fight Back’
Danial Rifki’s Indonesian remake of the Spanish thriller “The Invisible Guest” has reached cinemas after its release was delayed by exclusivity clauses with HBO. At the Jakarta World Cinema festival, he is also presenting two new films, including “Sandal Jepit No. 10”, a thriller about police power and fear in contemporary Indonesia.
Rifki says “Sandal Jepit No. 10” draws on memories of repression under Suharto’s 32-year New Order and concerns that people still fear retaliation for criticising those in power. He sees social media as a way for people to support one another and regain influence. His other festival film, “Tua Tua Keladi”, explores desire and second chances among older villagers, while his next film, “Before Thirty”, will examine pressure on young people to succeed before turning 30.
In short
- Rifki’s delayed remake has reached cinemas.
- His new thriller explores fear and resistance in Indonesia.
- His next film examines pressure to succeed before 30.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Rifki’s account makes a case for treating memories of Suharto-era repression as relevant to present-day debates about police power and criticism of authorities. If people still fear retaliation, telling such stories and using social media to support one another may help them speak out and feel less isolated.
The case against
A cautious view would distinguish historical memories and a filmmaker’s interpretation from evidence about how power operates today. Social media can help people organise and express dissent, but it may not protect them from retaliation or address the underlying causes of fear; the story does not provide further evidence to assess those claims.
Explained simply
Suharto led Indonesia from 1967 to 1998 under a system known as the New Order. His government restricted political opposition, and people who challenged those in power risked punishment, leaving a legacy that continues to shape debates about authority and freedom of expression.
Danial Rifki is an Indonesian filmmaker whose work includes thrillers and stories about social pressures. His film Sandal Jepit No. 10 draws on memories of the Suharto era and concerns about whether people today feel safe criticising those in power; Rifki has also pointed to social media as a way for people to support one another.
Entertainment Europe Film World