The rise of Indonesian films: Opportunities and challenges

Cimigo
Dec 20, 2024

The holiday season is here, and for many Indonesians, watching films is the top choice for quality time with loved ones. A recent study conducted by Cimigo, involving 312 respondents, highlights a golden opportunity for Indonesian films to take centre stage during this festive season. As families and friends gather, they gravitate towards genres that resonate deeply with their culture and experiences.

Indonesian Films are well-received by local audiences

Indonesian films have garnered a positive reception among local audiences. Based on Cimigo’s research, 50% of audiences expressed a strong interest in these productions. A significant 76% have even watched Indonesian films in cinemas over the past year.

How do audiences discover new Indonesian films?

Social media plays a massive role in introducing audiences to Indonesian films: 62% discover films through trailers shared on platforms, 38% from film review accounts on social media, 37% when films become trending topics, 36% through YouTube adverts and 31% via recommendations from friends or family. This highlights the importance of digital marketing strategies in amplifying the reach of Indonesian cinema.

Indonesian film popularity


Genres that resonate with audiences

When it comes to genre preferences, family-themed (60%) and comedy (56%) films lead the way among Indonesian audiences. Notably, these genres are more favoured for local productions than for foreign films.

What’s more, audiences aren’t just watching for fun-they’re looking for something meaningful. Nearly half (46%) say an engaging storyline is the most important factor in choosing a film, while 31% want unique narratives that offer something fresh. Another 31% seek relatable stories that resonate with their own lives. This shows there’s plenty of room for creativity, as long as filmmakers stay connected to what matters to their audience.

Indonesian film preference


Challenges to overcome

Despite their love for local films, not everyone is rushing to the cinema. Some people feel let down by unengaging storylines (35%) or visuals that do not live up to expectations (22%). And let’s face it – word of mouth matters. Negative reviews (23%) can quickly discourage potential audiences.

These are fixable problems. With better storytelling and higher production quality, filmmakers can convince more people that Indonesian films are worth watching on the big screen.

Indonesian film barriers


Moving forward: Unlocking the potential of Indonesian film

Indonesian film is at a pivotal moment, with strong audience support and opportunities for growth on the horizon. By investing in storytelling, improving production quality, and tackling piracy, the industry can solidify its position both locally and globally. Social media will remain an essential tool for creating excitement around new releases, ensuring that Indonesian films continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive entertainment landscape.

As Cimigo’s study highlights, this festive season presents a golden opportunity for Indonesian films to dominate watchlists. With its ongoing research and insights, Cimigo remains committed to helping the Indonesian film industry navigate challenges and flourish in a dynamic market.


Written by: Mutiara Nuralita Saputri (Alit)

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