Samsara

Samsara is a drama and fantasy film rooted in Indonesian mysticism. The story follows Darta, a man from a poor background whose partner's wealthy parents reject him. In an attempt to gain riches, Darta performs a dark ritual and makes a pact with the Monkey King. While he achieves his goal of wealth, the act inadvertently brings a life of suffering upon his child and wife. The narrative examines the desire to change one's identity and the lengths a person will go to achieve social elevation.

The film was written and directed by Garin Nugroho. In the chronological order of his work, this movie follows Chaotic Love Poems and Kejarlah Janji, and precedes Siapa Dia. The production was a collaboration between Garin Nugroho Workshop, Cineria Films, Lynx Films, and Silur Barong Co. The cast features Ario Bayu in the role of Darta, alongside Juliet Burnett as Sinta and Gus Bang Sada, who portrays both the Monkey King and Sinta's father. Other cast members include Ni Ketut Arini, Cok Sawitri, and Valentine Payen-Wicaksono. The movie has a runtime of 90 minutes and was released on December 5, 2024.