Esok Tanpa Ibu to Compete at Busan International Film Festival 2025

🖋️ Writer: Ine – Jakarta Bureau Chief
✍️ Editor: Kenzo | AswinNews.com – Sharp, Accurate, Reliable, and Up-to-Date

Jakarta, AswinNews.com – Indonesian film Esok Tanpa Ibu, internationally titled Mothernet, produced by BASE Entertainment and Beacon Film, has officially been selected to compete at the prestigious Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) 2025.

Starring Dian Sastrowardoyo, Ringgo Agus Rahman, and Ali Fikry, the film will compete in Vision Asia, a program dedicated to showcasing fresh voices in Asian independent cinema while spotlighting emerging directors. This year, 23 films have been selected: 12 from Korea and 11 from across Asia, with Mothernet proudly representing Indonesia.

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A Heartfelt Story with a Touch of Technology

Mothernet follows the story of Rama (Ali Fikry), a rebellious teenager who only trusts his mother. When tragedy strikes and he loses her (played by Dian Sastrowardoyo), Rama is left devastated. His life takes an unexpected turn when his friend introduces I-BU, an AI program designed to replicate a mother’s warmth and care. Amid conflicts with his stern father, Rama embarks on a journey of grief, acceptance, and rediscovering the true meaning of family.

The film is directed by Malaysian filmmaker Ho Wi-ding, winner of the Platform Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival 2018 and Best New Director at the 2010 Golden Horse Awards. The screenplay was penned by Gina S. Noer, Diva Apresya, and Melarissa Sjarief, with producers Shanty Harmayn, Dian Sastrowardoyo, Tanya Yuson, Aoura Lovenson, and Winnie Lau.

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A Milestone for Indonesian Cinema

Producer Shanty Harmayn expressed her excitement about the selection:

“BIFF is the perfect stage for the world premiere of this film. It is a celebration of Asian cinema and cross-border collaboration, carrying a profound message about the relationship between teenagers and their parents.”

Actress and producer Dian Sastrowardoyo, who co-produced the film through her company Beacon Film, shared her pride in the project:

“This marks a new chapter for my production house. I hope Mothernet brings a refreshing voice to Asian cinema while also showcasing the remarkable talent of young actors, including Ali Fikry, whose performance is truly impressive.”

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About BIFF 2025

The Busan International Film Festival is recognized as the largest film festival in Asia. Celebrating its 30th edition in 2025, the festival continues to be a global platform for bold and innovative works from Asia and beyond.

For updates on Esok Tanpa Ibu (Mothernet), follow the official Instagram account @base.id.

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Editorial Note

The selection of Esok Tanpa Ibu (Mothernet) at BIFF 2025 is more than just recognition of one film—it reflects the growing visibility of Indonesian cinema on the world stage. At a time when regional collaboration is reshaping Asia’s creative industries, this achievement highlights how Indonesian filmmakers are not only telling local stories but also contributing to universal narratives that resonate internationally.

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