Mungiu's 'Fjord' Opens Jakarta World Cinema

Cristian Mungiu's film 'Fjord' premiered at CGV Grand Indonesia on Sunday, marking the opening of the fifth edition of Jakarta World Cinema. The movie, which won the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival, serves as the anchor for the event.

Dan Adrian Bălănescu, the Romanian ambassador to Indonesia, attended the premiere. He stated that the film is Romania's official submission for the international feature Oscar at the 99th Academy Awards in 2027. Bălănescu expressed hope that the narrative would resonate with local viewers.

The ambassador addressed critical reception of the film. He noted that while some critics accused Mungiu of flirting with conservative ideas, others praised the work as a courageous critique of contemporary Western society. Bălănescu cited a Romanian interview in which Mungiu said, 'There's no bravery in making a movie that defends progressive left-wing values. It's outright provincial and opportunistic.'

Tudor Vladimir Panduru, the film's cinematographer, led a masterclass for festival attendees. He confirmed that 'Fjord' is his third collaboration with Mungiu, following 'Graduation' and 'R.M.N.' Panduru noted this was the first project shot outside Romania, using English and Norwegian dialogue.

Panduru told the audience that the film explores different values and perspectives. He added, 'So I think watching this film is important to answer a few questions for yourself, and to understand how to be a better person in the society we live in.'

The festival program includes 207 titles from 69 countries. One hundred and two films are screening exclusively in theaters, while online streaming on KlikFilm began on Oct. 6. Of the total lineup, 120 films have won awards at major festivals. Asian cinema accounts for 96 of the entries, and 41 films were directed by women. The event will conclude on Nov. 7 with the Thai horror film 'Inherit.'