RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Ryan Santoso, producer of the film Ikatan Darah (Blood Ties), shared his experience attending the film's world premiere at Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas. He admitted to being deeply moved by the enthusiastic reception from international audiences, who warmly embraced the Indonesian action movie.

"The film festival took us to Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, for the world premiere of Ikatan Darah. I was the only one who could attend, as the others had prior commitments," said Ryan during a press conference for the film at Senayan, Jakarta, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

According to Ryan, screenings filled multiple studios to capacity. He witnessed firsthand the audience's reactions to every scene.

Ryan noted that many moments in the film elicited the exact responses the production team had anticipated. This included action sequences and humor that resonated strongly with international viewers.

“Every scene we anticipated a specific reaction for actually delivered. The jokes were also visualized effectively,” he said.

Language proved no barrier for audiences enjoying the film, with some delivering exuberant responses throughout the screening.

"They clapped, and some even stood up. The energy in the studio was incredible," added Ryan.

After the screening ended, numerous viewers approached Ryan directly to express their appreciation, praising Ikatan Darah for delivering a unique viewing experience.

"When it finished, they all came up to me, sincerely thanking us for making this film," he said.

Ryan added that the positive reception extended to the film's screening at the Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF), where audience energy across festivals exceeded his expectations.

Ikatan Darah stars Livi Ciananta, Derby Romero, Teuku Rifnu Wikana, Dimas Anggara, and veteran actress Lydia Kandou. The film is slated for wide release in Indonesian cinemas starting April 30, 2026. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)