Joko Anwar’s ‘Ghost in the Cell’ Screen in 86 Countries

  • 31 Mar 2026 07:20 WIB
  •  Voice of Indonesia
Key Points
  • Joko Anwar's film "Ghost in the Cell" has been purchased by 86 countries ahead of its Indonesian release on April 16, 2026.
  • The screenings spanned territories such as Southeast Asia, North America, Europe, and Latin America, demonstrating its broad global reach.
  • Universal themes of power, corruption, and the search for truth make the film relevant and sought after by the international market.

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Director Joko Anwar’s latest cinematic work, Ghost in the Cell, has achieved a major milestone with confirmed screenings across 86 countries. The film has garnered significant international attention since its debut at the 2026 Berlinale in Germany.

This success underscores the high global market demand for the production. In its home country, Ghost in the Cell is scheduled to hit Indonesian theaters starting April 16, 2026.

Come and See Pictures produced the film in collaboration with RAPI Films, Legacy Pictures, and Barunson E&A for international distribution. It has secured screenings across Asia and Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

In North America, the film will be released in the United States and Canada. Meanwhile, its reach extends to Russia and CIS countries, covering territories such as Kazakhstan and Georgia.

The distribution also spans Europe, including Germany, France, Spain, the Netherlands, as well as the United Kingdom and Ireland. Furthermore, the film is set to premiere in Australia and New Zealand.

In Latin America, the screening list includes Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. The film will also reach the South Asian region, appearing in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

According to Joko Anwar, the film explores themes deeply rooted in reality, such as power dynamics, corrupt systems, and the struggle for truth. He believes these themes are universal and resonate with audiences worldwide.

This universality is what facilitated the film’s wide global acceptance. Joko noted that the narrative is not only relevant to Indonesia but also reflects conditions in many other nations.

"While this is an accessible film within the horror-comedy genre, it is fundamentally a story about power. It explores what happens when the truth is suppressed and what occurs when it finally surfaces," said Joko Anwar in an official release on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Prior to its Berlinale appearance, the film was acquired by German distributor Plaion Pictures. This partnership paved the way for screenings across Europe, particularly in German-speaking territories.

Producer Tia Hasibuan remarked that this achievement serves as evidence of the growing global recognition of Indonesian film production quality. The sheer number of countries acquiring distribution rights demonstrates the film's strong appeal in the international market.

Ghost in the Cell features a star-studded cast, including Abimana Aryasatya, Bront Palarae, and Arswendy Bening Swara. The ensemble also includes Endy Arfian, Lukman Sardi, Mike Lucock, Yoga Pratama, Morgan Oey, Aming, Kiki Narendra, Rio Dewanto, and Tora Sudiro.

Representing one of the largest global distributions for an Indonesian film, Ghost in the Cell is expected to further solidify the Indonesian film industry’s position on the international stage. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)

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