Empat Musim Pertiwi Headed to Toronto and Busan International Film Festivals

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Acclaimed Indonesian director Kamila Andini is set to take the international film scene by storm once again as her latest feature film, Empat Musim Pertiwi (Four Seasons In Java), prepares for its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in Canada and the 2026 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) in South Korea under the A Window On Asian Cinema program, a dedicated showcase honoring works by Asian filmmakers who have left a profound mark on international cinema.

Produced by Forka Films, the project marks the studio's largest-scale production to date. The ambitious cinematic endeavor spans an international co-production involving six countries: Indonesia, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Saudi Arabia, and Poland. It also features a powerhouse network of domestic and international collaborators, including Miles Films, Jagartha, Trinity Optima, Imajinari, Team Up, Julie Estelle, Navvaros, and French sales agent Goodfellas.

The narrative centers on Pertiwi, portrayed by Putri Marino, who returns to her homeland after decades of absence. Her homecoming reunites her with figures from her past, unearthing profound memories of the different seasons of her life, ranging from her finest triumphs to her most difficult moments. Notably, the project serves as an artistic milestone for Kamila Andini, who explores a cross-genre approach for the first time by incorporating science-fiction elements into her storytelling.

“I really like sci-fi films, but only now do I feel the need to present it broadly and universally. Every story has its own needs, and for me, this is also one of the best ways to convey it,” Kamila said in an official statement.

Principal photography took place throughout 2025, with a significant portion of the filming conducted around the breathtaking landscapes of Mount Bromo. The production utilized settlements, agricultural fields, and sandy expanses, requiring massive logistical coordination. Producer Ifa Isfansyah noted that the sheer scale of the production presented unique challenges that extended well into post-production due to the intricate details of the film's design.

"We hope audiences can experience Pertiwi's journey home in encountering the seasons of her life. Through Kamila Andini's latest artistic exploration, which is also supported by a crew that has worked together since Gadis Kretek," Ifa said.

This release marks Kamila Andini’s triumphant return to TIFF, where her previous feature Yuni captured the prestigious Platform Prize in 2021. Alongside lead actress Putri Marino, the stellar ensemble cast features Arya Saloka, Christine Hakim, Hana Malasan, Shofia Shireen, Nagra Pakusadewo, Dwika Pradnyana, Maryam Supraba, Hanna Aretha, and Totos Rasiti. The production also champions diversity on screen through the inclusion of actors Dwika Pradnyana, who has vitiligo, and deaf actress Hanna Aretha.

Following its festival runs, Empat Musim Pertiwi is scheduled for its commercial theatrical release across Indonesian cinemas on October 8, 2026. (Naura Sofia-EN)