Indonesia’s film industry is gaining global attention once again. Four short films by Indonesian filmmakers are set to have their world premiere at La Semaine de la Critique, Cannes Film Festival 2026 through the Next Step Studio program.
Here’s everything you need to know
❓ What is Next Step Studio Cannes 2026?
Next Step Studio 2026 is an international film collaboration program that brings together Indonesian directors and Southeast Asian filmmakers to co-create short films.
The program is part of La Semaine de la Critique, a prestigious sidebar of the Cannes Film Festival 2026 known for spotlighting emerging global talents.
❓ Which Indonesian directors are involved?
The four selected Indonesian directors are:
- Reza Fahriyansyah
- Shelby Kho
- Reza Rahadian
- Khozy Rizal
They collaborate with filmmakers from Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, and Singapore.
❓ What are the titles of the short films?
Here are the four Indonesian short films premiering at Cannes:
- Holy Crowd — directed by Reza Fahriyansyah
- Original Wound — directed by Shelby Kho
- Annisa — directed by Reza Rahadian
- Mothers Are Mothering — directed by Khozy Rizal
All four films will premiere on May 14, 2026.
❓ Who are the cast members?
The films feature top Indonesian actors, including:
- Prilly Latuconsina
- Yusuf Mahardika
- Arswendy Bening Swara
- Agnes Naomi
- Omara Esteghlal
- Happy Salma
- Asmara Abigail
❓ Who are the producers and production companies?
The films are produced by KawanKawan Media, with producers:
- Yulia Evina Bhara
- Amerta Kusuma
They are supported by major industry figures like Angga Dwimas Sasongko and Dian Sastrowardoyo.
❓ Why is this important for Indonesian cinema?
This milestone matters for several reasons:
- Indonesia becomes a country of focus in the program
- Opens doors for international co-productions
- Strengthens Indonesia’s presence in the global film industry
- Supports emerging filmmakers toward feature film development
❓ What is the goal of Next Step Studio?
The program aims to:
- Develop emerging Indonesian filmmakers
- Help projects reach international markets
- Strengthen cultural diplomacy between Indonesia and France
This collaboration aligns with cultural agreements involving Emmanuel Macron and Prabowo Subianto.
❓ Can these films bring Indonesia to the global stage?
Very likely. The program has a strong track record:
- Involves 80+ global filmmakers
- Has led to nearly 50 feature films
- Serves as a gateway to major international festivals
This means these short films are not the end—but the beginning of a global journey.
❓ When and where will the films premiere?
📍 Location: Cannes, France
📅 Date: May 14, 2026
🎬 Program: La Semaine de la Critique
🔥 Final Thoughts
Indonesian short films at Cannes 2026 mark a significant leap for the country’s film industry. Through Next Step Studio, filmmakers like Reza Rahadian and Khozy Rizal are paving the way for a new generation to break into the global scene.
👉 If sustained, this could signal a new era where: Indonesian cinema is not just local—it’s global.
