Jakarta, City of Dreamers (2022)

Review Team

4/5

Jakarta, City of Dreamers presents a poignant narrative that intertwines ambition with the stark realities of life in a bustling metropolis. Director Ertanto Robby Soediskam skillfully guides us through the labyrinthine challenges faced by Dom, our protagonist, who arrives in Jakarta with dreams of ... Show more >> Jakarta, City of Dreamers presents a poignant narrative that intertwines ambition with the stark realities of life in a bustling metropolis. Director Ertanto Robby Soediskam skillfully guides us through the labyrinthine challenges faced by Dom, our protagonist, who arrives in Jakarta with dreams of stardom. The film's strength lies in its character development; Dom's encounters with Pingkan and Radit draw him into a world he never anticipated, forcing viewers to confront the moral complexities that accompany ambition. The cinematography captures the vibrancy of Jakarta while contrasting it with the darker undertones of the drug trade. Performances are commendable, particularly from the leads, who portray their characters' struggles with authenticity. Overall, this film is an engaging watch that prompts reflection on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of dreams. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Jakarta, City of Dreamers is an ambitious film that attempts to blend the glitz of the acting world with the grit of drug trafficking. While it has its moments of brilliance, the execution can feel uneven at times. Dom's journey is relatable, but the film occasionally gets bogged down in its darker ... Show more >> Jakarta, City of Dreamers is an ambitious film that attempts to blend the glitz of the acting world with the grit of drug trafficking. While it has its moments of brilliance, the execution can feel uneven at times. Dom's journey is relatable, but the film occasionally gets bogged down in its darker themes, which may alienate some viewers looking for a straightforward narrative. The performances shine, particularly the chemistry between Dom and Pingkan, providing warmth amidst the chaos. The direction captures the essence of Jakarta, yet it sometimes lacks the pacing needed to keep audiences fully engaged. If you're in the mood for a thought-provoking film that explores the costs of ambition, this might be worth a watch, but be prepared for a heavy tone. Show less